When do we start? Understanding Two Phases of Treatment

If you've recently attended a playdate or a school event and noticed that your friend's child is proudly sporting a set of braces, you might be wondering why your little one hasn't hopped on the orthodontic train just yet. Well, fear not! There's a method to the orthodontic madness, and today, we're diving into the world of early orthodontic treatment.

So, why might your friend's child be rocking braces while yours is still brace-free? Well, the concept of two phases of orthodontic treatment might hold the key. In some cases, it’s beneficial to start with early intervention, addressing specific issues when a child is around 7 years old. This helps guide the growth and development of the jaw and facial structures. Early treatment can have a positive impact on expanding and developing the airway resulting in multiple health benefits.  

Now, you might be curious about those magical-sounding devices called rapid palatal expanders or RPE’s that typically accompany early treatment. These nifty contraptions work wonders on young children because their growing bones are more malleable. If your child needs an expander, it's likely to be recommended during the early orthodontic phase. These devices gently widen the upper jaw, creating more space for teeth to come in properly and preventing future crowding issues.

A second phase of treatment may be required at a later age when all the permanent teeth are erupted. The goal is to treat at specific times to reduce the need for more complicated treatments, including extractions or surgeries to uncover impacted teeth. The good news is for many kids two phase treatment may not be required. Dr. Mike and his team take a conservative approach and understand that every smile is unique, and not all little teeth need an early tune-up. Instead, we opt for a wait-and-watch approach, intervening only when necessary. It's all about giving your child the right treatment at the right time.

The key takeaway here is that every child's orthodontic journey is different, and there's no one-size-fits-all solution. Dr. Mike and his team at Berkshire Orthodontics understand the importance of personalized care and take pride in offering conservative approaches that prioritize your child's long-term dental health.

So, if you're feeling a bit left out because your friend's child has braces and yours doesn't, don't fret. Embrace the uniqueness of your child's smile, and trust that Dr. Mike has their best interests at heart. When the time is right, we will guide your little one toward a radiant, confident smile – no rush, just the right touch of care.  And by the way,a common misconception is that you need a referral from your dentist to bring your child in for an evaluation and that is simply not the case. We will gladly schedule your complimentary consultation at any time and no referral is necessary. We feel everyone benefits from an initial visit at age 7, if for no other reason than “piece of mind” regarding your child's smile.

Here's to happy smiles, unique journeys, and the expert hands of Dr. Mike and his team at Berkshire Orthodontics!  Call  us at (413) 443-0644, or click below to schedule a consultation with Dr. Mike.