Along with the American Association of Orthodontist, we recommend that a child receive their first orthodontic screening by the age 7. This doesn’t mean that treatment will necessarily begin at that time, but it does allow us to recognize potential problems early and correct them before becoming more serious. We will be looking at the jaw growth and whether there is enough room for permanent teeth. Early evaluation will help Dr. Vecere determine the best time to begin treatment.
Certain tooth problems can be addressed before all permanent teeth erupt. Between the ages of 7 and 9, the first four permanent upper front teeth have erupted. If there is crowding, misalignment or protrusion in these front teeth, 
early treatment may be indicated.
Phase I Treatment (Early Treatment)
During Phase I treatment, we focus on correcting the jaw and front teeth alignment to help promote proper eruption for the remaining permanent teeth. Depending on the problem, certain orthodontic appliances will be used to enhance specific growth patterns that will create ample room for erupting permanent teeth. Depending on the severity of the problem, treatment may last 12-18 months before Phase II treatment will begin. Phase II treatment is when the remaining permanent teeth that have erupted and can be properly aligned.
Advantages of Phase I Treatment
There are numerous advantages to early treatment, including:
- Enhances the relationship between the upper jaw and lower jaw
- Takes full advantage of the growth patterns in a child
- The bone is able to move easier because it is more pliable
- Repositions protruding teeth so they are less vulnerable to injury
- Reduces need for extraction of permanent teeth
- Patient is more cooperative at this age
- Facial appearance is enhances
- Reduces the treatment time for Phase II treatment with braces
Phase II Treatment
This phase normally occurs between the ages of 11-14, after all the permanent teeth have erupted. Generally, Phase II treatment will involve full braces for the upper and lower teeth. For some, only a simple alignment of teeth is necessary.
Full Treatment
If a patient did not undergo Phase I treatment and is seeking orthodontic treatment after all the permanent teeth have erupted, then Full Treatment is needed. This usually is a more complex treatment that requires a longer treatment time.