At Ortho:Dana, we’re committed to creating healthy, confident smiles that last a lifetime. For some children, the best path to long-term dental health begins earlier than you might expect. That’s where two-phase orthodontic treatment in West Valley City comes in—a proactive approach to guiding jaw development and correcting bite issues before they become more complex.
Whether you’re a parent exploring early treatment options or have been referred by your dentist, our team is here to guide you through every step with care, clarity, and personalized solutions.
West Valley City Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment
Two-phase treatment is a specialized approach used to address orthodontic concerns in two distinct stages—beginning in childhood and completing during adolescence. This method helps create space for developing teeth, supports proper jaw growth, and reduces the need for more invasive treatments later on.
At Ortho:Dana, Dr. Huntsman uses the latest technology and a kid-friendly approach to make early orthodontic care stress-free and effective for both children and parents.
What Is Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment?
Two-phase orthodontic treatment is a combination of early intervention and later comprehensive orthodontics. It’s designed to correct skeletal issues, bite problems, and spacing concerns as a child grows. Rather than waiting until all permanent teeth have erupted, this method addresses problems while the mouth is still developing—offering long-term benefits for both function and aesthetics.
Phase One: Early Interceptive Treatment
Phase One typically begins between the ages of 6 and 10, while a child still has a mix of baby and permanent teeth. The goal is to address issues like:
- Jaw growth discrepancies
- Narrow dental arches
- Crowding or spacing
- Crossbites, underbites, or overbites
- Habits such as thumb sucking or tongue thrusting
Early treatment might involve limited braces, palatal expanders, space maintainers, or habit appliances. The goal is to create a healthy foundation for permanent teeth and facial development.
Resting Phase
After Phase One, your child enters the resting phase, during which we allow remaining permanent teeth to erupt naturally. No active treatment usually occurs during this time, but we continue to monitor growth and development with regular check-ins.
The resting phase typically lasts 1–3 years, depending on the patient’s needs and growth patterns.
Phase Two: Full Orthodontic Treatment
Phase Two usually begins between ages 11 and 13, once all permanent teeth have come in. At this stage, we focus on fine-tuning the bite and aligning teeth for optimal function and appearance. Treatment may involve traditional braces, self-ligating braces, or clear aligners depending on the child’s needs and preferences.
The result is a healthy, confident smile with balanced facial aesthetics and long-term stability.
Who Needs Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment in West Valley?
Not every child requires two-phase treatment, but it’s highly beneficial for those showing signs of early orthodontic concerns. Your child may be a good candidate if they experience:
- Difficulty chewing or biting
- Early loss of baby teeth (before age 5)
- Crowded or blocked-out teeth
- Jaw shifting or popping sounds
- Bite problems such as crossbite, underbite, or overbite
- Speech difficulties
- Mouth breathing or thumb sucking
If you’re unsure, a consultation with Dr. Huntsman can help determine whether early intervention is the right path for your child.
Benefits of Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment
- Improved facial balance and jaw development
- Reduces need for extractions or surgery later
- Creates space for permanent teeth
- Corrects harmful habits before they worsen
- Leads to shorter and more efficient Phase Two treatment
- Boosts confidence and comfort early on
Two-phase treatment is not just about straight teeth—it’s about setting your child up for long-term oral health and overall well-being.
Why Choose Ortho:Dana?
At Ortho:Dana, we make early orthodontic care approachable and stress-free for both kids and parents. Our team is experienced in treating growing smiles with the compassion and attention they deserve. Here’s why families trust us for two-phase orthodontic treatment in West Valley City:
- Experienced, gentle care from a trusted community orthodontist
- Kid-friendly environment with a focus on comfort and communication
- Cutting-edge technology to plan efficient, customized treatments
- Ongoing support and education to keep parents informed every step of the way
We’re here to partner with your family and create a smile that grows with your child. Schedule a consultation today and learn how we can help your child smile brighter—now and into the future.
