Two-Phase Treatment in West Hills

Two-phase treatment in West Hills is an approach for certain children where orthodontic care is split into two stages: an early phase while baby teeth are still present, and a later phase once most adult teeth have come in. When it is the right fit, this can produce a better, more stable long-term result than waiting.

Phase 1: early guidance

Done around ages 7 to 9 for suitable cases, Phase 1 uses appliances like a palatal expander or partial braces to guide jaw growth, create room, and address problems that are easier to fix while a child is growing, such as a crossbite or severe crowding.

Resting period

Between phases, we simply monitor as the remaining adult teeth erupt. Many children wear a retainer to hold the progress made in Phase 1.

Phase 2: full alignment

Once most adult teeth are in, Phase 2 uses braces or Invisalign to align the whole smile and perfect the bite. Because Phase 1 already handled the harder growth-related issues, Phase 2 is often shorter and simpler.

Does your child need two phases?

Most children do not, and we will always tell you honestly. Two-phase treatment is reserved for cases where acting early genuinely improves the outcome. Learn about early treatment, or call to have your child evaluated.