- Bronte Family Orthodontics
- Dr. Manish Aggarwal
- Orthodontist
- 420 Bronte Street
- Suite 113
- Milton, Ontario
- L9T OH9
- (905) 878-5447
About Orthodontics
What is the advantage of two-phase orthodontic treatment?
Two-phase orthodontic treatment is a very specialized process that encompasses tooth straightening and physical, facial changes. The major advantage of a two-phase treatment is to maximize the opportunity to accomplish the ideal healthy, functional, and esthetic result.
First Phase Treatment: Your foundation for a lifetime of beautiful teeth
Reasons for entering into first phase treatment include:
- Overjet: upper teeth protruding ahead of the lower teeth
- Crossbite: Lower teeth ahead of the upper teeth
- Lower teeth biting into the roof of the mouth
- Thumb or finger sucking habits
- Self-esteem issues regarding the look of the teeth or smile
- Crowded/Impacted teeth: Permanent teeth growing in the wrong direction instead of their proper place in the mouth.
Planning now can save your smile later
Because children are growing rapidly, they can benefit from a first phase of orthodontic treatment utilizing appliances that direct the growth relationship of the upper and lower jaws to establish a good foundation. This early correction may prevent premature wearing of teeth necessitating restorations, make room for potentially impacted teeth, and provide harmony between the teeth, muscles, and jaw bones.
Making records to determine your unique treatment
Orthodontic records will be necessary to determine the type of appliances to be used, the duration of treatment time, and the frequency of visits. Records consist of models of the teeth, digital x-rays of the teeth and jaws, and digital photographs. These records also help Dr. Aggarwal communicate more effectively with you and your family dentist.
Resting Period
In this phase, the remaining permanent teeth are allowed to erupt. Retainers are sometimes, though not always, used to hold the result from first phase until the remaining permanent teeth erupt. A successful first phase will have created room for teeth to find an eruption path. Otherwise, they may become impacted or severely displaced.
Monitoring your teeth's progress
At the end of the first phase of treatment, teeth are not in their final positions. This will be determined and accomplished in the second phase of treatment. Selective removal of certain baby teeth may be in the best interest of enhancing eruption during this resting phase. Therefore, periodic recall appointments for observation are necessary, usually on a six-month basis. There is no fee for these observation/recall visits.
Second Phase Treatment: Stay healthy and look attractive
The goal of the second phase is to make sure each tooth has an exact location in the mouth where it is in harmony with the lips, cheeks, tongue, and other teeth. When this equilibrium is established, the teeth will function together properly.
Movement & Retention
At the beginning of the first phase, orthodontic records were made and a diagnosis and treatment plan established. Certain types of appliances were used in the first phase, as dictated by the problem. Orthodontic progress records are often made to monitor progress and revise the treatment plan as needed. The second phase is initiated when all permanent teeth have erupted, and usually requires braces on all the teeth for an average of 18-24 months. Retainers are worn after this phase to ensure you retain your beautiful smile.