Phase I, or Interceptive Treatment, is aimed intercepting a moderate or severe orthodontic problem early in order to reduce or eliminate it. These problems most often include crossbites (of the front or back teeth) and crowding. Phase I treatment takes advantage of the early growth spurt and turns a difficult orthodontic problem into a more manageable one. This can often reduce the need for extractions or jaw surgery and allows us to deliver better long-term results and treatment options. This phase of treatment usually begins while the permanent front teeth are erupting (typically around the age of 8-9). Most Phase I patients will require a Phase II treatment in order to achieve an ideal bite.

Phase II treatment usually occurs a number of years later. Usually we are waiting for the remaining permanent teeth to erupt before Phase II begins. This most commonly occurs at the age of 12 or 13. The goal of Phase II treatment is to achieve an ideal fit of the teeth, resulting in less wear over time.