Here at Cowan & Whitaker Orthodontics, we value early orthodontic treatment and the wonders it can have on a child’s life. Starting two-phase treatment at an early age can help your child avoid invasive procedures later. We are here for your needs and want to make the experience as stress-free as possible for you and your family. Our team is here to share with you what treatment options are available during two-phase treatment!

Why Would My Child Need Two-Phase Treatment?

If you notice your child experiencing issues such as bite discrepancies, difficulty chewing, protruding teeth, or crowded teeth, they may benefit from two-phase treatment. When complications are diagnosed early, starting Phase I treatment early can help to avoid more invasive procedures in the future. 

By working on problems like jaw alignment when a child’s jaw is still malleable, less work will need to be done in the future. Not every child needs two-phase treatment, but a preliminary appointment to determine whether it will be beneficial or not can make treatment in the future much easier.

How Does The Treatment Work?

Phase One

Also referred to as early interceptive treatment, involves determining what issues are present and what treatment options are available to help fix them. Typically beginning between the ages of seven and 11 and lasting up to a year, Dr. Cowan and Dr. Whitaker can help to clear the path of oral obstacles and establish an ideal base for phase two treatment if needed. 

The first phase can help solve issues with appliances like jaw alignment by widening it with a palate expander, solving crowded teeth with partial braces, and keeping space between teeth equal after early baby teeth fall out with a space maintainer.

Monitoring Progress

After the optimal jaw and tooth alignment are achieved in phase one, our orthodontists will continue to monitor your child’s progress through 6-month check-ins. This time in between allows for permanent teeth to finish naturally growing into without any assistance from appliances.

Phase Two

Phase two normally involves comprehensive treatment to help establish your child’s ideal teeth positioning that will be maintained with a retainer at the end of treatment. 

We offer metal braces, clear ceramic braces, as well as Invisalign for those looking for an alternative route to traditional braces. Each takes varying amounts of time depending on the condition of their teeth when our team begins, but the work Dr. Cowan and Dr. Whitaker accomplished in phase one will allow for this process to be much easier.

Smile Transformation Begins In Childhood

Our team at our Tuscaloosa practice is always eager to meet new patients and help them begin their journey to exceptional oral health! You can schedule your free consultation with us today to have your child’s teeth checked out by our friendly orthodontists by calling 205-526-4141. We look forward to welcoming you to our office and answering any questions regarding early orthodontic care!