Phase I Orthodontics

What Is Phase I Orthodontics?

Phase I orthodontics (also called interceptive treatment) refers to early orthodontic treatment that is typically started while a child has both primary (baby) and permanent teeth. Orthodontic problems often become obvious as early as the ages of 6-8 and phase I treatment is sometimes indicated to address developing bite issues, to guide jaw growth, and to create space for incoming adult teeth.

Some of the factors that may contribute to such tooth and jaw irregularities include genetic factors, the early loss of baby teeth, and damaging oral habits such as thumb-sucking. Treating orthodontic concerns at an early age can help reduce the severity of the issue and often decreases the length of treatment needed later in adolescence.

Benefits of Phase I Orthodontics

1. Eliminating the need for extractions: As dentists, we strive to preserve all of your natural teeth whenever possible. Studies have shown that using Damon braces to expand and create space significantly reduces the need for permanent tooth extraction during comprehensive orthodontic treatment.
2. Achieving arch expansion: Often, a patient will require a palatal expander if they need to have their dental arches widened. The Damon system effectively expands the dental arches and creates more room for growing teeth reducing the need for a separate rapid palatal expansion (RPE) appliance.
3. Bite Correction: Bite issues, such as a severe overbite or underbite, are ideally treated at a young age to avoid future extractions or surgical correction. This is due to the fact that prior to puberty, the cranial sutures are elastic and can be manipulated to aid with bite correction.
4. Self-Esteem: In patients with significant orthodontic issues, studies have shown that phase I treatment enhances self-esteem and improves performance in school.

Phase I treatment methods

Dr. Curtis offers a variety of customized treatments designed to support healthy dental development in your child. Each option is tailored to your child's unique needs, helping to guide proper tooth alignment, jaw growth, and long-term oral health in a gentle and supportive way.

1. Damon System Braces: Damon braces may be used in a phase I orthodontic treatment to expand and create space for the developing permanent teeth, to align crooked and crowded teeth, and to address bite problems and jaw alignment. This low friction orthodontic brace system comfortably and effectively moves the teeth helping to prevent the need for tooth extractions or more extensive treatment in the future.



2. Rapid Palatal Expander (RPE): This appliance is typically used only when absolutely necessary, as Dr. Curtis can often achieve desired results with Damon Braces alone. A palatal expander is a cemented orthodontic appliance used to widen the upper jaw, also known as the palate. It is commonly used in children and adolescents to correct a narrow upper jaw, create space for permanent teeth, and prevent or correct crossbites. They are most effective prior to puberty, when the bones of the upper jaw are still developing.



3. Invisalign First: Invisalign First is a type of clear aligner treatment designed specifically for growing children. In phase I treatment, it is used to address developing malocclusions and to prepare a child's smile for their adult teeth. Invisalign First uses clear, removable aligners to gently guide teeth into their proper positions. It is effective at addressing issues such as crowding, spacing, and bite problems. Invisalign First is an alternative to braces, and may especially be indicated for those young patients who require frequent imaging or have severe environmental allergies.



4. Invisalign Palatal Expander System: An Invisalign Palatal Expander is a 3D-printed orthodontic appliance that gently widens the upper jaw in growing patients. It is used to correct issues like overcrowding, crossbites, and narrow arches. This removable, custom-made appliance helps to expand the palate, creating space for the teeth to align properly and to improve bite function. The Invisalign Palatal Expander system is often used in conjunction with Invisalign First clear aligners for early intervention in orthodontic treatment, but may also be used with other treatment methods.



5. Removable Expansion Appliance: Often called expansion retainers, these custom removable appliances are used to expand the dental arches, to guide jaw growth, to correct minor bite issues, or to assist with minor tooth alignment during phase I orthodontic treatment.

At Curtis Orthodontics, our customized phase I orthodontic treatments are designed to lay the foundation for a lifelong, healthy, and aligned smile. Our orthodontic team is excited to walk with you and your child through the phase I orthodontic treatment process. We look forward to providing open communication in a caring and comfortable atmosphere, designed to enhance your and your child's experience. We look forward to helping your child achieve a confident, healthy smile.

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