If your child has crooked baby teeth, you might be wondering if the issue can be resolved—or if it even should be resolved, given that baby teeth are intended to fall out. However, there are many reasons for undergoing phase 1 orthodontics, which is the go-to treatment for dental issues affecting the baby teeth. Continue reading below to learn a little more about phase 1 orthodontics and how it can benefit your child’s teeth and set them up for a future of ideal oral health!
What Is Phase 1 Orthodontics?
To put it simply, phase 1 orthodontics includes treatment that is used to address issues in the baby teeth. This treatment can target issues such as crooked or protruding teeth, space or gaps between the teeth, bite problems, jaw disproportion, or poor dental habits like tongue thrust or thumb sucking.
As with most other types of oral health problems and conditions, these issues are easier to correct if they’re identified early on. Orthodontists often turn toward early braces treatments, in addition to oral appliances like palate expanders, thumb-sucking devices, or orthodontic headgear. Generally, treatment lasts 12 months; however, it can still be as short as 6 months or as long as 18 months, since every smile is different!
What Are the Advantages of Phase 1 Orthodontics?
There are numerous benefits to undergoing phase 1 orthodontics, but mainly, it’s intended to improve the development of permanent teeth and reduce the likelihood of future orthodontic issues. Additionally, it offers the following benefits:
- Improved oral functionality when eating, speaking, and breathing
- Increased space for future permanent teeth
- Lowered likelihood of future orthodontic issues such as bite misalignment and overcrowding
- Lowered risk of damage to other teeth
- Improved smile appearance which leads to boosted self-esteem
Even if your child doesn’t end up needing phase 1 orthodontic treatment, a consultation will help their orthodontist learn more about their smile so that in the future, it’s in good hands! That said, if they do end up needing phase 1 orthodontics, rest assured that it’s setting them up for a future of healthy and happy smiling!
About the Practice
Here at Simply Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we’re excited to offer families in Clinton, MA an unmatched level of high-quality care! We proudly provide a wide range of pediatric dental and orthodontic services for children of all ages. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to schedule a visit for your little one, feel free to contact us online or by phone for additional information or assistance. Telephone: (978) 612-6222.