Phase 1 Orthodontic Treatment

Every child’s smile holds a world of potential. Our team provides early and effective orthodontic care through what we call Phase 1 Orthodontic Treatment in Rancho Mission Viejo and San Clemente. However, you might wonder what exactly Phase 1 treatment is and how it can help your child. Well, let’s dive into it together.

What is Phase 1 Orthodontic Treatment?

First, Phase 1 Orthodontic Treatment, or interceptive treatment, is for children still in the formative years of dental development. However, this phase typically occurs when a child has a mix of baby teeth and adult teeth, usually between the ages of 6 and 10. Additionally, the goal of this early intervention is to address any developmental issues that could potentially lead to more complex orthodontic problems down the line.

Why Consider Early Treatment?

You may think orthodontics is only necessary for teenagers with braces, but early treatment can offer significant advantages. Well, at this stage, we have a unique window of opportunity to guide the growth of the jaw and yet-to-come-in permanent teeth. Plus, addressing these concerns early can make later treatments less complicated, shorter, and more efficient.

Benefits of Phase 1 Treatment

Correcting Harmful Oral Habits: Children often develop habits such as thumb-sucking or tongue thrusting, which can affect the alignment of the teeth and jaw. However, phase 1 treatment and habit therapy can help discourage these habits.
Guiding Jaw Growth: Additionally, a jaw that correctly aligns is crucial for chewing and speech. Plus, early treatment can help guide the bones into better positions as your child grows.
Improving Appearance and Boosting Confidence: Next, a beautiful smile can significantly impact a child’s confidence. However, early treatment allows us to improve aesthetic concerns early on.
Reducing Risk of Trauma: Moreover, early treatment can reduce the risk of injury from falls or accidents for children with protruding front teeth.
Making Space for Erupting Teeth: Furthermore, ensuring enough space for all permanent teeth can prevent crowding and the need for extraction later.

What Does Phase 1 Treatment Involve?

Phase 1 treatment can involve a variety of orthodontic appliances, that we customize to your child’s unique needs. However, common approaches include removable appliances, limited braces, or other special devices aimed at correcting specific issues. Furthermore, throughout this phase, we closely monitor the development of your child’s facial structure and the teeth’s eruption to tailor the treatment plan effectively.

What To Expect During Phase 1 Treatment

First, when you bring your child for an initial consultation, our team takes the time to assess their specific orthodontic needs. Additionally, we use a combination of digital X-rays, photographs, and a thorough examination to create a comprehensive treatment plan. Next, we’ll walk through this plan with you, answer any questions, and ensure you’re comfortable and confident with the process before we begin.

Moreover, we schedule progress reviews at regular intervals to adjust treatments as needed and keep you informed of your child’s progress. Plus, we believe communication is key, and that means keeping you and your child involved every step of the way.

Our Approach at Brandon Orthodontics

At Brandon Orthodontics, we pride ourselves on creating a caring and supportive environment. Additionally, our team is passionate about making every visit a positive experience. Plus, we ensure parents and children feel at ease and understand their treatment journey. Moreover, we treat our patients like family because, to us, they indeed are.

Furthermore, we also understand that life can be busy with all the activities kids are involved in these days, which is why we offer flexible scheduling options. Making it convenient for your family to get the care your child needs is our top priority.

Preparing for your First Visit

Visiting the orthodontist for the first time can make your child nervous. That’s why we recommend talking to them about what to expect. Let them know we’re here to help their smile grow as beautifully as they are. Plus, our friendly staff can engage with children and make them comfortable, so your visit can be fun and relaxed.

To prepare for your first visit, make sure to bring any pertinent medical history and insurance information. We’d like to know any concerns you have so we can address them right away.