Phase One Orthodontics

Phase I orthodontic treatment addresses skeletal and dental problems while the child is still growing, taking advantage of jaw growth potential. Common Phase I treatments include palatal expansion for crossbite or narrow upper jaw, partial braces to align specific teeth, space maintenance or regaining, and growth modification appliances for jaw discrepancies. Typical duration is 12-18 months, followed by a retention/monitoring phase until enough permanent teeth erupt for Phase II. Goals of Phase I include creating space for erupting permanent teeth, correcting crossbites that could cause asymmetric jaw growth, reducing the severity of the final malocclusion, and potentially shortening Phase II treatment.