Dr. Buchler prefers to see patients by age 7 to screen for potential problems. Examples of these problems are underbites, overbites, crossbites, excessive protrusion, excessive crowding, jaw shifting, thumb habits, and disproportionate growth of the jaws. In situations such as these, in order to achieve the ideal result, a 2 phase treatment plan is recommended.

Phase I treatment

If early treatment is indicated then treatment will consist of fixing the immediate and serious problems with appliances and braces. Phase 1 treatment usually last 12-18 months. After these skeletal problems are resolved, your child will be placed in a recall phase.

Recall Phase

In this phase, the remaining permanent teeth are allowed to erupt. Periodic recall appointments for observation are necessary to ensure the teeth are erupting as scheduled. These appointments are usually on a six-month basis.

Phase 2 Treatment

Once the permanent teeth are in, the patient is ready for the second phase. The goal of the second phase is to correct the dental issues by ensuring that 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. Braces are usually needed for an average of 24 months in this phase. Retainers are worn after braces are removed in order to ensure you retain your beautiful smile.