Pay OnlinePhase 1 Orthodontics – Glen Ellyn, IL
Promoting Your Child’s Oral Development
Don’t be intimidated by the fancy name – phase 1 orthodontics in Glen Ellyn is a positive treatment that will ultimately benefit your child’s oral development. By addressing minor alignment issues early, our team can help your kiddo avoid needing more extensive intervention in the future or possibly eliminate the need for braces entirely! You can contact our team to learn more, or continue reading for a brief overview of phase 1 orthodontics.
How Phase 1 Orthodontics Works
First, our pediatric dentists will closely examine your child’s mouth either as part of a routine checkup and cleaning or during a more specialized appointment. Using X-rays and their professional training, they’ll see how evenly your child’s teeth line-up and how straight new pearly whites might emerge later. Depending on their findings, they may recommend braces or another type of orthodontic appliance designed to help reduce dental crowding, large gaps between teeth, crooked alignments, or other similar issues. As their early-intervention orthodontics gently move their teeth into more ideal positions, your child’s oral structure should grow and adapt accordingly.
Ultimately, the goal of phase 1 orthodontics is to set your child’s smile up for success!
Who is a Good Candidate for Phase 1 Orthodontics?
Children who are good candidates for phase 1 orthodontics might still have all or some of their baby teeth, in addition to:
- Pearly whites that are packed too closely together
- Wide gaps between one or more teeth
- Teeth that are crooked or protrude at odd angles
- Difficulties speaking due to dental alignment
- Poor bite or jaw positions
- Sleep breathing issues that result from unideal dental or jaw alignments
After we get a good look at your child’s mouth, we’ll be able to tell you whether phase 1 orthodontics is right for them.
The Benefits of Phase 1 Orthodontics
Naturally, the main benefits of children’s orthodontics are that they can treat existing issues and help prevent symptoms from worsening in the future. Thanks to early intervention, your kiddo will be able to:
- Enjoy a perfectly straight smile and even bite
- Potentially avoid needing braces later
- Brush and floss their teeth more effectively
- Feel more comfortable when their bite is at rest
- Eat their favorite foods without issue and speak more clearly
Phase 1 Orthodontics FAQs
Is Phase 1 orthodontics painful?
Let’s start with one of the most-asked questions about phase 1 orthodontics: Does it hurt? To be completely transparent, some mild soreness and pressure are to be expected as your child’s teeth are guided into their ideal places. The good news is that it’s only temporary. Plus, there are several ways you can ease their discomfort even sooner, like having them sip on cool water or placing a cold compress against the outside of their cheek.
How long does Phase 1 orthodontic treatment last?
Phase 1 orthodontics often takes 9-12 months. Once your child’s orthodontist in Glen Ellyn has an in-depth understanding of their dental needs, they can create a custom treatment plan and provide a more precise estimate. They will also share what needs to be done to stay on track, like avoiding certain foods and committing to a solid oral hygiene regimen at home.
Is it okay for a child to play sports while wearing braces?
As long as they wear a mouthguard, yes. If your child doesn’t have one (or the one they have no longer fits), don’t buy one online or at a local sporting goods store. Instead, let us know! That way, we can have a custom one made. Not only will this ensure that it protects both their teeth and their braces from harm, but it also ensures that it fits comfortably in the process.
Does Phase 1 orthodontics affect diet and nutrition?
That depends on the appliance! If your child has a removable one, then they can continue to enjoy all of their favorite meals and snacks. If it’s fixed, however, then there will be a few dietary restrictions. For instance, your child shouldn’t eat raw carrots, hard pretzels, raw almonds, or any other extremely crunchy foods.
Is Phase 1 orthodontics covered by insurance?
Some dental insurance providers do cover a portion of the cost. So, if you are insured, you should read through the fine print on your plan or call the helpline on your paperwork! We also welcome dental insurance and are in-network with Delta Dental Premier PPO, so we can help you utilize any available benefits.
What happens after Phase 1 orthodontics?
If a child’s needs were fully addressed during phase 1, then no follow-up is needed! If phase 2 is needed to correct issues involving permanent teeth, then we will provide you with an overview of what’s coming next. Usually, it’s waiting a year or so for your child’s smile to “rest” before phase 2 orthodontics is introduced.