Orthodontic treatment can occur in a single phase or multiple phases. For some children, early treatment is essential in preventing or fixing more serious oral health issues. Other children benefit from more traditional treatment, after age 10 or 11. Known as phase II orthodontics, children must have all their permanent teeth before beginning this later phase.
Phase II orthodontics can treat all types of oral issues, including:
- Misaligned or protruding teeth
- Gaps in teeth
- Overcrowded teeth
- Jaws and bites that don’t align properly
- Malocclusion (poor bite)
- Difficulties with speaking, chewing, or eating
Phase II orthodontics often involves non-removable braces with brackets, but can also include appliances like space maintainers, palatal expanders, bands, and aligners. A retainer ensures that teeth don’t move after treatment ends.
Although metal braces are the most common type of phase II orthodontics in children and teens, adults often choose clear braces made of plastic or ceramic. Clear braces are “invisible,” which accommodate adults’ lifestyles better. Removable clear aligner trays are also a phase II orthodontics option for older teens and adults who have milder oral issues.
Phase II orthodontics may or may not include a phase I treatment phase. Your orthodontist specialist can help you decide the best course of treatment for your little one or yourself.