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Early Orthodontics (Phase 1) in Chicago, IL
Addressing orthodontic needs early in your child’s development can prevent complex dental issues and potentially reduce the need for extensive treatment later. Early orthodontics, known as Phase 1 treatment, identifies and addresses developmental problems when your child still has their primary teeth and is in the early stages of permanent tooth eruption. For families in Chicago seeking preventive orthodontic care, beginning this journey between the ages of 7 and 9 can make a significant difference in your child’s dental future.
At Floss & Co., we provide comprehensive Phase 1 orthodontic evaluations and treatment for children throughout Chicago. Our trusted team of specialists, including Dr. Catherine Murphy, who brings over a decade of experience combining traditional and advanced orthodontic techniques, and Dr. Martha Silva, delivers exceptional care tailored to your child’s unique developmental needs. Our multidisciplinary approach ensures your child receives the most effective early intervention possible.
What is Phase 1 Orthodontic Treatment?
Phase 1 orthodontics, also called interceptive orthodontics, addresses dental and jaw development issues while a child still has a mixture of primary and permanent teeth. This early intervention typically occurs between the ages of 6 and 10 and focuses on guiding proper jaw growth, creating sufficient space for emerging permanent teeth, and correcting bite problems before they become more serious. Rather than waiting until all permanent teeth have erupted, this proactive approach can prevent more complex orthodontic issues and potentially shorten or simplify future treatment.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children receive their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7, which aligns perfectly with the timing for Phase 1 consideration. During this developmental stage, we can identify potential problems with jaw growth, crowding, and bite alignment. Early detection creates opportunities for intervention when the child’s growth can be guided more effectively.
Signs Your Child May Need Early Orthodontic Treatment
Recognizing potential orthodontic issues early can significantly impact treatment outcomes. Common indicators that might suggest your child would benefit from an early orthodontic evaluation include difficulty chewing or biting, mouth breathing, early or late loss of baby teeth, crowded or misplaced teeth, jaw shifts when opening or closing the mouth, or teeth that meet abnormally or not at all.
Thumb sucking beyond age five can also contribute to orthodontic problems, potentially affecting jaw development and tooth alignment. If you notice your child has persistent habits like these or any noticeable alignment issues, consulting with the caring professionals at Floss & Co. can help determine if early intervention would be beneficial.
Benefits of Phase 1 Orthodontic Treatment
Early orthodontic intervention offers numerous advantages for developing smiles. By addressing growth and development issues during this critical stage, Phase 1 treatment can guide proper jaw growth to accommodate emerging permanent teeth, reducing the likelihood of impactions or extractions later. This preventive approach often creates more space for crowded teeth, potentially shortening or simplifying Phase 2 treatment when your child is older.
Beyond the physical benefits, early orthodontic care can improve your child’s self-confidence during important developmental years. Addressing noticeable alignment issues can prevent teasing and help children feel more comfortable with their appearance. Additionally, proper alignment contributes to better oral hygiene, as straight teeth are easier to clean effectively.
The Phase 1 Treatment Process at Floss & Co.
When you bring your child to our Chicago office for an early orthodontic evaluation, our approach begins with a comprehensive assessment of their current dental development. Dr. Catherine Murphy and our team examine your child’s teeth, jaw structure, and facial development to identify any potential issues that could benefit from early intervention.
We utilize advanced imaging technology to visualize developing teeth and jaw relationships, allowing us to create personalized treatment plans tailored to your child’s specific needs. This diagnostic process helps us determine whether Phase 1 treatment would be beneficial or if monitoring your child’s development is the more appropriate approach.
Common Early Orthodontic Appliances
Phase 1 treatment may involve various orthodontic appliances designed specifically for young, developing mouths. Palatal expanders help widen the upper jaw to create more space for emerging teeth and improve breathing pathways. For children with spacing issues, space maintainers prevent adjacent teeth from shifting into the gaps left by prematurely lost primary teeth.
Partial braces may be applied to specific areas needing alignment, rather than full-mouth braces typical in comprehensive treatment. These limited appliances can address crossbites, severe crowding, or protruding front teeth. At Floss & Co., we emphasize using the most comfortable and effective orthodontic technology available to ensure the best experience for our young patients.
Phase 1 Treatment Duration and Expectations
Most Phase 1 treatment plans at our Chicago practice last approximately 12 to 18 months, depending on the specific issues being addressed. Following active treatment, your child will enter a supervision period where we monitor the eruption of permanent teeth and overall dental development. This interim phase allows natural growth to occur while maintaining the corrections achieved during Phase 1.
It’s important to understand Phase 1 is typically followed by a rest period before determining if Phase 2 treatment is necessary once most permanent teeth have erupted. Our orthodontic specialists will provide clear guidance throughout this process, ensuring you understand what to expect at each stage of your child’s treatment journey.
Schedule Your Child's Early Orthodontic Evaluation Today
Early orthodontic intervention can make a remarkable difference in your child’s dental development and future smile. At Floss & Co., our team of specialists provides comprehensive Phase 1 orthodontic care in a comfortable, child-friendly environment designed to put even the most anxious young patients at ease. With convenient locations, we make accessing quality orthodontic care easier for families throughout Chicago.
Don’t wait until all permanent teeth have erupted to address orthodontic concerns. Contact Floss & Co. today at (773) 586-5522 or fill out our contact form to schedule your child’s early orthodontic evaluation with our experienced team. By taking this proactive step, you’re investing in your child’s oral health future and potentially preventing the need for more extensive treatment later on.
