Phase 1 vs Phase 2

Phase I vs Phase II treatment

There have been about 30 years where orthodontists have practiced what is commonly referred as Phase 1 and Phase 2 treatment. 

Simply put, Phase 1 refers to starting treatment before all the permanent teeth erupt. This could mean starting treatment as early as 8 years of age. Phase 2 treatment refers to treatment when all the permanent teeth are present.

So, what determines whether the orthodontist chooses phase 1 or phase 2 treatment for their patient?

A lot of choices orthodontists make are the ones they are familiar and comfortable with whether through training or experience. So the orthodontist you pick will almost always favor one approach rather than another. This is why having a few different options will allow you to choose the approach you are comfortable with.

Of course, there are certain factors that will influence the orthodontist.   

Impacted teeth usually require early treatment with the hope that the impaction will improve with development rather than become an insurmountable problem.   

Esthetics are another situation. If a young patient is very self-conscious of their teeth, early treatment may be indicated to alleviate those feelings of insecurity.

That being said, many problems can be easily corrected with Phase 2 treatment.  But that is our philosophy. 

As always, we recommend that you consult with your orthodontist, get a few opinions and decide what is right for you!