Treatments
Phase One
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have an orthodontic examination by age 7. Most patients are then able to wait until adult teeth are present to begin orthodontic treatment. However, early intervention may be indicated to 1) correct harmful habits that affect speech and tooth development, 2) gain space to prevent extractions at a later date, 3) guard against damage to teeth and gums. This is usually referred to as a “Phase One” of orthodontic treatment.
Two-phase orthodontic treatment is a specialized process that combines this early phase, a period of observation and retention, and the second phase of treatment when the adult dentition is present.
Two-phase orthodontic treatment is a specialized process that combines this early phase, a period of observation and retention, and the second phase of treatment when the adult dentition is present.
Rest Phase
In this phase, the remaining permanent teeth are left alone as they erupt. Retaining devices may not be recommended if they would interfere with eruption. It is best to allow the existing permanent teeth some freedom of movement.
Monitoring the teeth’s progress
At the end of the first phase of treatment, teeth are not in their final positions. This will be determined and accomplished in the second phase of treatment. Selective removal of certain primary (baby) teeth may be in the best interest of enhancing eruption during this resting phase.
Monitoring the teeth’s progress
At the end of the first phase of treatment, teeth are not in their final positions. This will be determined and accomplished in the second phase of treatment. Selective removal of certain primary (baby) teeth may be in the best interest of enhancing eruption during this resting phase.
Phase Two
The goal of the second phase is to make sure each tooth has an exact location in the mouth where it is in harmony with the lips, cheeks, tongue, and other teeth. When this equilibrium is established, the teeth will function together properly. Phase Two usually involves full upper and lower braces.
At the beginning of the first phase, orthodontic records were made and a diagnosis and treatment plan was established. Certain types of appliances were used in the first phase to correct and realign the teeth and jaw. The second phase begins when all permanent teeth have erupted, and usually requires braces on all the teeth for an average of 24 months. Retainers are worn after this phase to ensure your child retains his or her beautiful smile.
At the beginning of the first phase, orthodontic records were made and a diagnosis and treatment plan was established. Certain types of appliances were used in the first phase to correct and realign the teeth and jaw. The second phase begins when all permanent teeth have erupted, and usually requires braces on all the teeth for an average of 24 months. Retainers are worn after this phase to ensure your child retains his or her beautiful smile.
Teen Orthodontics
Teens are one of our favorite groups of patients to treat. We recognize that teens have a specific set of needs. By making our teen patients active participants in their treatment, we increase compliance and overall satisfaction. We offer a variety of treatment options to meet the needs of our young-adult patients including traditional braces, self-ligating braces, and Invisalign.
Adult Orthodontics
Orthodontic treatment is no longer just for teens. In fact, thanks to Invisalign treatment, about two in five patients in our Las Vegas orthodontic offices is over the age of 21! Many adults choose to receive treatment at Whetten Orthodontics because they understand the importance of maintaining oral health and want to feel better about their appearance. Adults throughout Las Vegas are taking advantage of the opportunity to receive orthodontic care, and you can too.
Invisalign
Invisalign is a technologically advanced treatment option that uses a set of clear prescription aligners to apply constant, gentle pressure to the teeth. Each aligner is worn for 7-10 days until the treatment is complete. Invisalign is preferred by many patients because of the predictable results, quick treatment time, and the convenience of removable clear aligners.
Invisalign
Invisalign
