Braces for Children and Adolescents (Age 7 to 19)
The Canadian Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children be seen by an orthodontist at the age of seven. However, some patients do not begin treatment until the adolescent years and treatment typically lasts 18 to 24 months.
Early Treatment
Early treatment enables the jaws to be precisely aligned as they develop and jaw size to be coordinated with tooth size. Early treatment allows each child’s grown potential to be maximized and aids in the eruption of the permanent dentition. In many cases, extraction of permanent teeth can be avoided.
The enthusiasm felt by Dr. Mah and staff about Early Orthodontic Treatment is evident in any discussion. The general dental community and our patients clearly recognize the valuable benefits that are obtained as a result of this early treatment.
The Two Phase Treatment
Benefits of the Two Phase System:
- Reduces the odds of needing permanent teeth extracted or jaw surgery
- Reduces teeth impactions
- Reduces the chance of fracturing or chipping the upper front protruding teeth
- Total time in braces is reduced
The Two Critical Phases:
Interceptive Phase
The first phase is the interceptive phase. It typically begins from age 7 to 10 and lasts for approximately 8-16 months. Adjustment visits are scheduled every 4 to 6 weeks. Goals are specific and achieved with simple appliances and partial braces only.
- Expand jaws to make room for permanent teeth
- Improve the bite
- Align the permanent front teeth
Completion Phase
The Completion Phase begins when most of the permanent teeth have erupted and includes braces on all the teeth. Treatment time typically ranges from 18 to 28 months.
- Obtain ideal function, alignment and stability
A Touch of Thought
Dr. Mah offers clear, gold and stainless steel brackets and Invisalign options for his patients.