Prosper & Melissa Phase 2 Orthodontics

Braces Options for Teenagers

Once most of your child's permanent teeth have erupted (generally between 11 – 13), this is an opportune time to begin Phase 2 orthodontic treatment. At this stage in his or her development, the teeth and jaws will show their position and contribution to the bite. If your child was monitored and treated in Phase 1, Dr. Bietsch will have years of documentation, patterns of growth, and additional resources to study that will help to make the best treatment decisions.

Whether or not your child had their Phase 1 treatment at our office, we would be happy to have them complete their Phase 2 treatment with us!

If your child is ready for Phase 2, call our office at (972) 934-6222 to begin the next step in your orthodontic journey.

What Is Phase 2 Orthodontics?

Phase 2 is much like the Phase 1 consultation appointment. We will perform an examination of the teeth and jaw, plus take photographs and X-rays to map out the entire mouth and dental relationship.

In Phase 2, the type of orthodontic treatment needed may include:

• Traditional metal braces
• Self-ligating braces
• Aligners
• Retainers
• Oral appliance therapy
• Surgical orthodontics

Children at Phase 2 age will experience their orthodontic treatments with reduced discomfort, shorter treatment time, and will have fewer adjustment visits in our office.

What to Expect During Phase 2

Depending on what type of appliance or braces the orthodontist helps you decide is best for your child, this will determine how Phase 2 will be implemented. The good news is that by Phase 2, many of your child's peers will be getting braces on and your child may be ready or even eager to get their braces on too! Investing in their smile will not only improve their aesthetic appearance but will boost their self-esteem in the long run.

No matter if your child has braces or wears a removable appliance, oral hygiene is very important. We recommend the following tips:

• You may need to create a packet with floss, a toothbrush, and toothpaste for your child to take to school to brush his or her teeth during school hours.
• Keeping the teeth clean while wearing any orthodontic appliance will help prevent tooth decay.
• Having bacteria sitting on the teeth all day is a mistake that can lead to cavities, discoloration of the teeth, and gum tissue problems.

Your orthodontist will also schedule follow-up appointments as needed to document the progress of the teeth and to make adjustments as needed. Don't skip your child's regular dental appointments because he or she is seeing an orthodontist! Protect your investment and have your primary dentist make sure there are no other problems, such as cavities or gum issues.

Start Your Journey to a Beautiful Smile!

When you are ready for Phase 2, start by calling our friendly staff at Bietsch Orthodontics. Dr. Bietsch and our talented team have many years of experience, and we will help you determine the best treatments for your child. Phase 2 orthodontic treatment can save you and your child a lot of time (faster treatment and adjustment sessions, less time in appliances, and more), so he or she will be on the way to a beautiful, healthy smile.

We invite you to call us at (972) 934-6222 for a Phase 2 complimentary examination at our practices in Prosper & Melissa, TX.