Phase 1 Orthodontics – Cumming, GA

Is Phase 1 Orthodontics Painful?

Our team will make sure your little one is as comfortable as possible throughout the process, so your child shouldn’t experience pain when getting their oral appliance. Of course, it’s natural for them to feel some slight discomfort after having their appliance placed. Fortunately, these symptoms should be short-lived and easily alleviated with over-the-counter/prescribed pain medications as well as cold compresses. Your child’s mouth should also adjust quickly to the process. Remember that without Phase 1 orthodontics, they can potentially experience greater discomfort later on, such as chewing complications due to a bite misalignment.

What Appliances Are Used In Phase 1 Orthodontics?

Phase 1 orthodontics isn’t as complicated as other treatments, so you can expect your child to use simpler appliances. For instance, a palate expander can be used for children with overcrowded teeth, as the device helps widen the upper jaw. Baby teeth that are lost prematurely may need a space maintainer to prevent dental shifting so the permanent ones can grow out properly. Children with more severe orthodontic problems might require limited braces, which only target specific teeth as their jaws (and other teeth) are still maturing. Our team will review your little one’s specific treatment plan and determine the proper appliance(s) to ensure a more comfortable and healthier smile in the future.

When Does Phase 1 Orthodontics Take Place?

Phase 1 orthodontics, also known as “interceptive orthodontics,” is typically provided for children ages 6 through 9. This is the dentition phase—when baby teeth begin to fall out on their own. At this time, the dentist can begin detecting any issue with jawbone growth and tooth development, which is easiest to treat in younger patients. Additionally, children begin to have their first molars grow out around age 7, which can help us predict how their bite will form over time.

Does Phase 1 Orthodontics Affect Diet & Nutrition?

Your little one’s meals may be affected depending on the kind of appliance they receive for Phase 1 orthodontics. Those with palate expanders or a set of limited braces might need to refrain from eating foods that are tougher to chew, like raw veggies, nuts, and steak. They’ll have to stick to a soft food diet to avoid damaging their appliance or disrupting their orthodontic process. Instead, make sure your little one eats food like bread, soft meats, dairy products, and cooked veggies. That said, if your child has removable appliances, then they won’t have to worry as much about dietary restrictions!

How Long Does Phase 1 Orthodontic Treatment last?

On average, Phase 1 orthodontics takes between 9 and 12 months. Of course, the length of your child’s treatment plan may be shorter or longer – it depends largely on the severity of their case. There are other factors that play a role, including how well your child follows the treatment guidelines.

Is it Okay for a Child to Play Sports While Wearing Braces?

The good news is that orthodontic treatment rarely interferes with sports and other physical activities. There’s just one rule: your child must wear a mouthguard. This dental device may be small, but it plays a big role in preventing orthodontic emergencies, like a loose bracket or broken wire. If your child doesn’t have one (or they are using a one-size-fits-all one from a sporting goods store), then schedule an appointment with us so we can have a custom one made.

Note: If your child does damage their braces while on the stage, field, or mat, then call us ASAP.

What Happens After Phase 1 Orthodontics?

That depends! If your child’s needs were fully addressed with Phase 1 orthodontics, then Phase 2 may not be necessary. Conversely, if the look, health, and function of their smile would benefit from later phases, then we will likely wait a year or so before moving forward. Fortunately, when the time does come, their treatment plan will be a bit shorter since the position of their teeth and the alignment of their bite have already benefited from Phase 1!

What Changes Should My Child Make While Wearing Braces?

Although braces today are significantly more comfortable, efficient, and hassle-free than they were decades prior, there are still some changes your child needs to make to prevent an orthodontic emergency. That starts with avoiding crunchy, hard, and sticky foods, like caramel candies, tortilla chips, whole apples, and thin pizza crust. It’s also of the utmost importance that they commit to a solid at-home oral hygiene regimen, including brushing twice a day and flossing each evening.

There are also some changes that can make your child’s orthodontic treatment more comfortable, like sticking to soft foods immediately following the adjustment appointments and using dental wax to prevent soft tissue irritation.

How Do I Know My Child Needs Phase 1 Orthodontics?

If your child has an overbite, their jaw seems off-centered, or their teeth are crooked, then there’s a chance that they need Phase 1 orthodontic treatment. Of course, the only way to know for sure is by bringing them in for a visit with our team at Serenity Orthodontics. At this appointment, one of our compassionate, friendly, and highly-trained orthodontists will conduct a thorough screening, review their findings, and share their recommendations on the next best steps.