Creating a beautiful smile often requires adjustments to the face or jaw. When problems are discovered while a child is still growing, an orthodontist has greater control over the final outcome. Patients in Smyrna, Vinings, or Atlanta, GA often require two-phase treatment, which can be performed with ease by Dr. David Lofters of Smile Envy Dental Group.
What is Two-Phase Treatment?
Put simply, two-phase treatment combines a tooth-straightening procedure such as Invisalign® with changes to a patient’s facial features. This may be accomplished through the use of procedures that will help the jaw develop during the first phase of treatment, ensuring there is enough space for teeth to move into as it grows. Since it is very effective at correcting problems in a developing jaw, two-phase treatment is normally performed only on children.
Benefits of Two-Phase Treatment
There are multiple benefits to two-phase treatment, including:
- Being able to correct bite problems early
- Creating more pleasing results from the final orthodontic treatment
- Reducing the odds that permanent teeth will need to be extracted later in life
- Decreasing the length of time that braces are needed
What is the Procedure for Two-Phase Treatment?
During the first phase, special dental appliances are used to influence the way the jaw develops. These appliances will also create an adequate amount of space for the growth of permanent teeth. As a result, the amount of overcrowding is significantly reduced.
The first phase of treatment is followed by a rest period of up to four years. During this time, orthodontic visits are required every three to six months. Dr. Lofters will monitor the progress of your child’s permanent teeth as they erupt. Retainers may also be used during the rest period.
Phase 2 of treatment involves wearing Invisalign® or traditional braces for a period of between 12 and 24 months. The final results will be much more pleasing than treatment with braces alone.
Preparing for Two-Phase Treatment
To determine if your child requires two-phase treatment, you should schedule an initial consultation in our office when he or she is around seven years old. By this age, we are often able to determine if braces might be needed later. If so, we can initiate two-phase treatment in order to greatly reduce the amount of time it will take to straighten the teeth.
Recovery from Two-Phase Treatment
There may be some discomfort during and after each phase of treatment, which can normally be eliminated with over-the-counter medication.
How Much Does Two-Phase Treatment Cost?
Providing an exact cost is extremely difficult. For this reason, Dr. Lofters may give you a cost for the first phase of treatment, and wait until that phase is completed before providing you with an estimate for the second phase. We understand that patients are often concerned with the cost, which is why we offer to finance through CareCredit®. CareCredit® works like a credit card and offers affordable monthly payments. We also accept cash, personal checks, and major credit cards.
Is Two-Phase Treatment Right for Me?
If your child has an underlying jaw issue, two-phase treatment could be needed to provide the best possible results from orthodontic care.
Why Choose Smile Envy Dental Group for Two-Phase Treatment?
Dr. Lofters is committed to providing the best possible care through every phase of treatment. He is highly experienced in all areas of orthodontic care and can easily customize a treatment plan that is tailored to your child’s individual needs.
What to Expect During your Two-Phase Treatment Consultation
X-rays and a dental exam are performed to determine how the jaw is developing. The results of these x-rays will be discussed with you in great detail so you can better understand the issues your child is facing. Dr. Lofters will recommend a treatment plan and carefully go over the advantages and disadvantages of it with you. You may then ask any questions you have about the various procedures.
Many procedures are easier to treat when action is taken early, and straightening the teeth is no exception. If you are concerned that your child’s jaw may not be developing properly, contact Smile Envy Dental Group to see if two-phase treatment is needed. Patients from Smyrna, Vinings and the cities surrounding Atlanta, GA are welcome.