Many people associate getting braces with their teenage years because that’s when so many patients undergo orthodontic treatment. By the time you reach young adulthood, your baby teeth have fallen out, and all your permanent teeth (except perhaps your wisdom teeth) have erupted.
However, some younger children can benefit from braces earlier in their dental development, which is where Phase 1 orthodontics comes in. Continue reading to learn more about this advantageous treatment and why it’s sometimes necessary!
What is Phase 1 Orthodontics?
This solution addresses a severe tooth or jaw misalignment that develops at a young age, such as an improper bite (overbite, underbite, crossbite, open bite, etc.) or spacing problems often caused by finger or thumb-sucking issues. Unfortunately, overcrowding or other concerns increase your kid’s vulnerability to tooth decay and gum disease because keeping them clean is harder. Not only that but younger children are sometimes bullied for outstanding features like an uneven grin, injuring their self-confidence.
If your little one is struggling with their dental condition, it’s worth investing in Phase 1 braces to address current misalignments and allow their adult teeth to grow normally.
Who Does Phase 1 Orthodontics Help?
Not every child with crooked teeth is a good candidate for this interceptive treatment. However, when your kid turns about 7 years old, your pediatric dentist can let you know whether they need additional help straightening their smile.
Before proceeding, they’ll examine your little one’s mouth, so no pre-existing issues interfere. They will provide tooth-colored fillings or other necessary procedures if they find cavities or gingivitis to ensure that orthodontics can be successful.
What are the Benefits of Phase 1 Orthodontics?
This service provides your child with many advantages that can improve their daily quality of life, such as:
- Bite correction. This can pull their teeth and jaw into their proper places so your kid won’t wear down their enamel prematurely.
- Breaking bad habits. These braces can hinder common behaviors like thumb or finger sucking.
- Preserve their grin. Making space for their teeth to grow correctly can preclude potential permanent teeth extraction in the future.
- Boost their confidence. Straightening your kid’s smile can help them look and feel happier in their own skin.
- Improve chewing ability. Children with bite misalignments may struggle to eat with utensils correctly or thoroughly chew their food, but thankfully, this can be corrected with orthodontics.
- Enhance enunciation. Improperly positioned teeth or jaws can lead to speech impediments like lisps until they are adjusted.
If you’re still unsure whether Phase 1 is right for your little loved one, the best way to find out is to consult their pediatric dentist!
About the Author
Dr. Roy Paulson has 35+ years of experience helping children build and maintain happy, healthy teeth and gums. He earned his doctorate in dental surgery from Creighton University and then completed a two-year residency throughout Hawaii. Today, his family-friendly practice offers a full array of services to kids from 0 to 18 and can accommodate even the most unique dental needs. He and his caring team strive to make every visit fun and educational so that your kid learns the value of caring for their grin. You can request an appointment on the website or call (307) 266-1997.