Orthodontists in Houston treating adults and kids
As a parent, it’s hard to think your child will need to see an orthodontist at such a young age when they still have their baby teeth. Why are orthodontists recommending starting treatment at such a young age to then continuing treatment at a later age? You may ask yourself, does my child really need to start so young with two-phase orthodontic treatment? What is two-phase orthodontic treatment anyways?
Learn what two-phase orthodontic treatment means and how this can benefit your child.
What is two-phase orthodontic treatment?
Two-phase orthodontic treatment is the specialized orthodontic care that occurs at two separate times. This process is done during two developmental stages of your child with the purpose to properly align the relationship of your child’s teeth and jaws, so that they work correctly.
Be aware of any signs of malocclusion (bite problem). Signs of potential candidates for two-phase treatment:
- Does your child have an underbite?
- Does your child have an overbite (overjet)?
- Does your child have an open bite?
- Does your child have a crossbite?
If you answered yes to any of the above questions, you should consider two-phase orthodontic treatment for your child.
What treatment is given in Phase I?
The first phase for any orthodontic treatment, is a thorough evaluation of the patient’s dental situation. In this phase, the doctor will complete a specialized 3-D x-ray that captures bone and skull conditions of the patient. During this time, the doctor will also obtain Digital Intraoral Impressions that can reveal tooth eruption sequencing, and space considerations for growth and development assessment.
In Phase I, the doctor intervenes and corrects any developing issues to guide the growth of the jawbones that support the teeth. Phase I avoids an unhealthy environment for the growth and development of the child’s teeth, gums, jaws, and face. During this phase, the orthodontist corrects any malocclusion (bite problem). This is the time to ensure there’s enough space when the permanent teeth come in.
What treatment is given in Phase II?
Phase II of treatment is when braces are installed. Thanks to all the assessment done during phase I, phase II is the time that teeth are moved into their proper position and the alignment of the teeth are corrected.
Phase II provides the orthodontic treatment with the installation of either metal braces, clear braces, or clear aligners. The type and length of treatment during this phase vary by patient. Because not all mouths are sized the same, the treatments are not all the same either. Each patient has a distinct problem that requires distinct treatment. Typically, you can expect your child to have braces for approximately two years, but this can vary.
What are the benefits of two-phase orthodontic treatment?
Many parents believe they can hold off the orthodontic treatment and opt to wait until their child’s permanent teeth come in. Postponing the treatment can worsen any issues your child may have with their jaw and teeth alignment.
Benefits of two-phase orthodontic treatment:
- Corrects jaw problems early, enabling your child to bite and chew more effectively
- Reduces the risk of breaking front teeth that protrude
- Improves long term stability, so that teeth stay in their new and final position
- Corrects alignment of the teeth, for a beautiful smile
- A beautiful smile improves your child’s self-esteem and confidence
Finding the right orthodontist for your child
First and foremost, make sure you bring your child to an orthodontist and not a dentist that installs braces. Orthodontists are dental specialists in preventing, diagnosing, and treating dental and facial irregularities. Moving your child’s teeth into new positions involves changes in jaw and facial bones. You want to ensure you are in hands of an expert in the field. Ensure they are a member of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO). Only orthodontists are admitted into the AAO.
Choosing the right orthodontist in Houston
Searching for the right treatment of braces in Houston for your child can be overwhelming. How do you know which orthodontist in Houston is the right fit for you and your child? Houston Orthodontics is the clinic that fulfills all the above servicing adults and kids alike for over 25 years in the greater Houston area. Dr. Mauricio Arguello treats every patient with the most compassionate care creating a relaxed atmosphere during every visit.
Dr. Arguello’s passion to work with children has motivated him to treat under privileged kids in Latin America donating his time, expertise, and sources to better their smile and lives.
Visit our website at bracesinhouston.com or call our office at 713-664-6611 to schedule your visit at Houston Orthodontics and receive the treatment of an expert that cares.