The Three Phases of Orthodontic Treatment for Children
Orthodontic treatment for children is typically divided into three key phases: early intervention, active treatment and retention. Each phase plays a crucial role in guiding jaw growth, correcting alignment and ensuring long-term results.
Phase 1: Early Intervention (Interceptive Orthodontics)
When it happens: Typically between ages 6 and 10
Why it matters: Addresses issues before they become more complex
The first stage of orthodontic treatment for children often begins with early intervention, also known as interceptive orthodontics. This phase focuses on guiding the development of your child’s teeth and jaws while they are still growing.
Some children benefit from this early stage of orthodontic treatment through the use of space maintainers, palatal expanders, or partial braces to correct issues such as crowded or widely spaced baby teeth, crossbites, underbites, and overbites, harmful oral habits like thumb-sucking, and abnormal jaw growth.
By addressing these concerns early, we can reduce the need for more invasive procedures later and often shorten the duration of future treatment.
Phase 2: Active Treatment
When it happens: Usually between ages 11 and 14
Why it matters: Aligns teeth and bite for long-term function and aesthetics
This is the most recognizable phase of orthodontic treatment for children—the stage where braces or clear aligners come into play. Once most of the permanent teeth have erupted, we use appliances to move the teeth into proper alignment.
During this phase, our team at Richmond Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics monitors progress closely to ensure that your child’s orthodontic treatment is both effective and efficient. Treatment usually takes between one to two years, depending on how complex your child’s orthodontic needs are.
The benefits of this phase include better chewing and speaking function, improved oral hygiene with straighter teeth and a more attractive and confident smile.
Phase 3: Retention
When it happens: Immediately after active treatment
Why it matters: Keeps teeth from shifting back
Retention is the final phase of orthodontic treatment for children, and it’s essential for maintaining results. Once braces or aligners are removed, we provide custom retainers to help the teeth stay in their new positions.
Even though the active part of orthodontic treatment is over, retention plays a long-term role. Wearing retainers as prescribed will protect your child’s new smile and reduce the risk of relapse.
Why Early Orthodontic Treatment for Children Can Be a Game Changer
You may wonder: Why start early? For some kids, early orthodontic treatment can guide jaw development, reduce the need for extractions and even prevent injury to protruding teeth.
Starting orthodontic treatment for children at the right time can create more room for incoming permanent teeth, minimize the severity of alignment issues, reduce emotional stress for children self-conscious about their teeth and help avoid future surgical procedures.
The American Association of Orthodontists suggests scheduling a child’s initial orthodontic evaluation around the age of 7. Early evaluation allows us to determine if your child may benefit from early orthodontic treatment.
What’s Next?
Every child’s smile is different. That’s why Richmond Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics in Mechanicsville, Midlothian and Richmond, VA offers personalized care plans tailored to your child’s needs. Whether your child is ready for early intervention or active braces, our team is here to guide you through every step of orthodontic treatment.
Orthodontic Treatment for Children: Request Your Appointment in Mechanicsville, Midlothian or Richmond Today
If you have questions about orthodontic treatment for children, schedule your appointment today. The path to a confident smile begins with the right care—at the right time.
