Phase 1 Orthodontics in Leander

Why Choose Austin Family Orthodontics in Leander for Phase 1 Orthodontics?

There are several reasons to choose Austin Family Orthodontics in Leander for your Phase 1 orthodontic needs, and we look forward to adding you to our extended family of patients. Our Leander office offers the following:

• A comfortable, welcoming atmosphere
• Modern dental equipment
• An array of orthodontic appliances from which to choose
• Skilled orthodontists
• An experienced, compassionate staff

Our orthodontists and staff are among the best in the area, and we know you'll be happy with your experience in our office.

Which Issues Does Phase 1 Orthodontics Treat?

Our Leander office routinely treats the most common orthodontic problems, such as:

• Crossbites, deep overbites, or underbites
• Severe crowding
• Tooth eruption problems
• Inadequate space caused by early loss of primary teeth
• Missing teeth

This isn't a comprehensive list of the orthodontic issues we treat, so if yours isn't on the list, don't despair. All these issues should be addressed promptly for the best oral health. No matter the orthodontic issue, we are equipped to help you achieve your goals. We will make sure to explain the intervention required and how it will impact growth.

What Are the Benefits of Treating These Dental Issues?

Early treatment of orthodontic issues, such as thumb-sucking or deep overbites, provides the best prognosis for lifelong good oral health and good self-esteem. It also prevents routine dental issues from escalating into major dental problems that are more invasive and more expensive to treat. It can also eliminate the self-confidence issues that can arise from poorly aligned teeth, gum issues, and other orthodontic issues. In addition to good oral hygiene habits, good oral health includes having teeth that are properly aligned, making it easier to maintain healthy gums and avoid cavities.

Effective Phase 1 orthodontic treatments also promote the following:

• Improved speech
• Sufficient room for adult teeth to erupt properly
• Improved aesthetics
• Correct asymmetric jaw development
• Elimination of oral habits such as thumb-sucking
• Elimination of the need for more in-depth Phase II treatments

Starting orthodontic care early can lead to a lifetime of great oral health. We’d be delighted to walk you through the process for Phase 1 orthodontic care and answer any questions you may have. Give us a call today to schedule a consultation.

Which Orthodontic Treatments Are Available?

No two individuals are the same, so each treatment will be tailored to the individual's needs and desired outcomes. Dr. Hertzberg always uses the best treatment protocol for each case and will discuss his recommended treatments and the rationale behind them. Together, you'll decide on the optimal treatment protocol or combination of treatments, such as braces, retainers, extractions, and so on.

Occasionally, we'll extract primary teeth as part of the treatment protocol. We typically use this treatment when there's crowding or the primary teeth are impeding the eruption of the secondary teeth. Sometimes, the primary teeth may cause secondary teeth to erupt in the wrong place, which can compromise gum or jawbone health or damage your permanent secondary teeth. These types of extractions may be performed by a general dentist, a pediatric dentist, or an oral surgeon, depending on the age of the patient and the reason for the extraction.

What Can I Expect From Treatment?

Phase I treatment is designed as an early treatment that can eliminate future dental and skeletal problems. It doesn't eliminate the need for future orthodontic treatment, although that occasionally happens. Rather, Phase I treatment is designed to prevent severe problems that may occur in the future as secondary teeth form and erupt.

Typically, Phase I treatment reduces the complexity of future issues and provides a stable long-term result. The time needed for treatment isn't always reduced; it will instead be divided between Phase I and Phase II programs. Overall, the average treatment time is usually about 26 months, or slightly more than two years. As always, treatment duration depends on the healing rate of the patient and the severity of the case.

What Happens After Phase I Treatment?

After you've completed your Phase I treatment, you'll wear a retainer for about a year, so that your teeth don't revert to their former positions. As primary teeth fall out, the retainer won't fit and then it becomes unnecessary. It's important to note that the objective of early treatment isn't to eliminate the future need for braces, although this occasionally happens. Rather, it's to position the teeth and gums so that future braces, if needed, are more effective.

What's the Cost of Phase I Orthodontics?

The cost for any dental procedure will be influenced by several factors, such as:

• Age of the patient
• All of the treatments needed
• The severity of the dental issues involved
• Any insurance coverage

All costs quoted will cover the entire treatment; they're not broken down by phase. Usually, Phase I treatment reduces the complexity of Phase II treatment. However, we'll provide you with a comprehensive breakdown of your treatment cost, including your insurance coverage and any other benefits that will reduce your out-of-pocket costs.

We recommend that you speak with your insurance provider before your initial appointment to learn the extent of your dental coverage, any exclusions, and any copays involved. Bring that information with you so that we can maximize your benefits.

Phase I Orthodontics FAQs

When Should Phase I Orthodontics Take Place?

Typically, Phase I orthodontics begins when a child is between 6 and 9 years old, although some patients may need to start earlier. We don't usually start Phase I after the age of 9.

We recommend that your child get evaluated before their seventh birthday to ensure optimal results. Their facial and jaw bones are still developing at this age, so reshaping them is faster, easier, and more effective. If your child has orthodontic issues, it's important to have them evaluated by an orthodontist as soon as possible, so call our Leander office for an appointment.

How Do I Know If My Child Needs Phase I Orthodontics?

If your child has bite problems, difficulty speaking clearly, crooked or crowded teeth, or a thumb-sucking habit, we recommend that they be evaluated by an orthodontist without delay. The earlier they begin receiving treatment, the better the prognosis.

We use advanced diagnostic procedures and tools to determine if early intervention will help, and Dr. Hertzberg will recommend the best protocol for your child's long-term needs.

Are Phase I Treatments Painful?

The younger the child, the less uncomfortable the treatment will be because their tissues are more malleable. Your child can expect some mild initial discomfort, but it should abate within a short time. We strive to minimize the pain through the use of gentle techniques and frequent monitoring of their progress. Any initial soreness will usually fade within one or two days, and you can use over-the-counter pain medications if necessary. Sometimes, sipping on cool water alleviates the discomfort.

Do Phase I Orthodontics Affect Diet and Nutrition?

If your child has a removable dental appliance, their diet shouldn't be affected by their treatment. If they have a fixed appliance, then they may need to adapt their diet to the limitations of the appliance. For instance, very hard or sticky foods like nuts or caramel may need to be avoided for the duration of the treatment. However, Dr. Hertzberg will provide dietary guidelines and appealing, nutritious alternatives for your child.

Can A Child's Bite Issues Improve Without Orthodontics?

Dr. Hertzberg will examine your child's teeth and gums and determine the best course of treatment for your child's bite issues. We don't typically assume that bite issues will resolve on their own, but we'll use diagnostic evaluations to determine the best course of action for your child. Treating orthodontic issues early can prevent the need for more invasive and expensive procedures in the future. If your child needs orthodontic work, today is the best time to start.