Phase I and IA treatment
Early interceptive orthodontics at Twin Teeth
At Twin Teeth Orthodontics, we believe in addressing orthodontic concerns before they become bigger problems. By guiding jaw growth and correcting harmful oral habits early, Phase I and IA treatments set children up for healthier development, shorter orthodontic journeys, and more stable long-term results.
What is Phase I treatment?
Phase I orthodontic treatment, also known as early interceptive treatment, usually begins between the ages of 6 and 10—before all the permanent teeth have come in. It’s designed to address developing problems early on, guide jaw growth, correct harmful oral habits, improve appearance, and make later (Phase II) treatment easier or shorter.
Phase I orthodontic treatment can also play an important role in improving airway and sleep, especially in children who show signs of sleep-disordered breathing like snoring, mouth breathing, or even obstructive sleep apnea.
Common goals of Phase I treatment
Creating space for crowded teeth
Correcting crossbites and narrow arches
Addressing jaw growth issues like severe underbites or overbites
Reducing Phase II treatment time and lowering the likelihood of extractions or jaw surgery
Preventing more serious problems like impacted teeth and periodontal issues
Improving airway and sleep quality through maxillary and nasal airway expansion, tongue posture, jaw alignment, and oral habit correction
Our Phase I treatments
- Rapid Palatal Expander (RPE): An orthodontic appliance used to widen the upper jaw (palate). It’s most commonly used in children while their bones are still growing and more flexible.
- Habit Appliances: Appliances aimed at stopping thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, or other oral habits. These include crib appliances and tongue tamers.
- Invisalign Expander: A clear, removable device designed to gently and gradually widen the upper jaw, offering a more comfortable and esthetic alternative to traditional expanders for growing children.
- Growth Modification Devices: These appliances help redirect jaw growth during peak developmental windows. They include facemasks (reverse pull headgear) for Class III (underbite) cases and children who need protraction of the upper jaw for airway development.
- Clear Aligners: Clear aligners can be utilized to correct early crowding, spacing, or alignment issues. They are an esthetic, comfortable solution to create space for permanent teeth to erupt.
- Limited Braces: Braces on the six front teeth and two molars to correct alignment or bite issues. This is a traditional approach that delivers great results for children who prefer a non-removable option.
Our Process
Here's how it works
Comprehensive Evaluation
Assess dental development, jaw growth, airway health, and oral habits.
Personalized Plan
Select the right appliance(s) to meet your child’s unique needs.
Active Treatment
Regular check-ins to guide progress and make adjustments.
Transition Phase
Monitor growth until it’s time for Phase II treatment.
What is Phase IA treatment?
Phase IA treatment refers to early orthodontic intervention for children ages 3 to 6, focusing on improving the airway and oral function during critical stages of growth.
This phase often includes:
- Expansion (with expanders or clear aligners)
- Habit correction (e.g., thumb sucking, mouth breathing)
- Myofunctional therapy
- Functional appliances to guide jaw development, support nasal breathing, and promote healthy oral posture
By addressing these issues early, Phase IA lays the foundation for better sleep, healthier growth, and smoother orthodontic outcomes in the future.
How we elevate your treatment
Airway-focused care
Prioritizing breathing and sleep health in every plan
Comprehensive options
A wide range of appliances and therapies to meet different needs
Long-term stability
Early care now makes treatment easier and more effective later
Frequently asked questions
Have questions about clear aligners? We’ve got you covered.
Why start orthodontic treatment so young?
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Early treatment helps guide jaw growth, correct oral habits, and prevent small problems from turning into bigger ones. Addressing issues while a child is still growing can make orthodontics simpler and shorter later.
Will my child still need braces later?
Most children benefit from Phase II treatment as teens, but Phase I or IA often shortens treatment time and makes it less invasive.
Does early treatment hurt?
There may be mild discomfort as appliances are adjusted, but children adapt quickly. Our team takes a gentle, supportive approach to keep them comfortable.
How do I know if my child needs Phase I or IA?
Signs include crowding, thumb sucking, mouth breathing, snoring, or noticeable bite problems. A consultation lets us evaluate your child and recommend the best plan.
