Karlin Orthodontics

for children & teens

The best time for your child to see an orthodontist is between the ages of 6 and 10 when their primary teeth are starting to fall out and permanent teeth are beginning to erupt. Typically the first permanent molars and incisors have erupted and crossbites, crowding, and other problems can be evaluated.

Phase I Treatment

Phase I, or early interceptive treatment, consists of expanders, space maintainers, partial braces, or active retainers. Dr. Karlin only recommends Phase I treatment when there is a moderate to severe orthodontic problem that should not wait until later to be treated. Dr. Karlin is conservative in his diagnosis and will not recommend Phase I treatment unless he feels he can make a significant difference in his patient’s overall treatment by doing so.

The goal of Phase I treatment is to aid in the development of the child’s jaw in order to allow adequate room for the future eruption of permanent teeth, also to improve the bite relationship of the upper and lower jaws. Early treatment can benefit a child if either the upper or lower jaw is growing at a faster rate. By correcting the problem at a younger age you can often prevent the need for extractions, jaw surgery and dental trauma. Without a needed Phase I treatment patients could develop more severe conditions that will not be able to be treated with braces alone.

Phase I treatment time is typically 9-12 months, depending on patient cooperation. After treatment the patient will be given a retainer and monitored while waiting for the remaining permanent teeth to erupt.

When most/all of the permanent teeth have erupted, Dr. Karlin will recommend a Phase II treatment (typically between the ages of 11-13). When a patient is ready for Phase II, both upper and lower braces will be placed and the teeth will be aligned and positioned to maximize their appearance and function. The benefits to having a Phase I treatment prior are that the need for extractions is often eliminated, treatment time is only 12-18 months, and fewer rubber bands are needed.

Potential Benefits of Phase I Treatment:

  • Influence the jaw growth in a positive manner.
  • Improve the width of the upper or lower arch.
  • Maintain or gain space for erupting teeth.
  • Reduce or eliminate the need for future jaw surgery.
  • Reduce the need for future extractions.
  • Correct harmful oral habits.
  • Reduce the risk of trauma to protrusive front teeth.
  • Improve speech development.
  • Shorten treatment time for Phase II treatment.
  • Improve aesthetics and self-esteem.
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