Two-Phase Treatment
Two-phase orthodontic treatment is a specialized process that combines tooth straightening and physical, facial changes. The purpose of two-phase treatment is to maximize the opportunity to accomplish the ideal healthy, functional, and aesthetic result that will remain stable throughout your child’s life.
Putting off treatment can result in a need for more invasive treatment later in life that may not completely fix your child’s smile. Early treatment is most effective for achieving lasting results. Most children do not need a two-phase treatment.
Phase One
Phase One treatment, also known as early interceptive treatment, typically begins between the ages of six and ten, when a child still has a mix of baby and permanent teeth. We may recommend Phase One treatment for children with certain orthodontic issues that, if left untreated, could become more severe as they grow. The goal of this early intervention is to guide the proper development of the jaws and make room for incoming permanent teeth, potentially preventing more complex problems down the road.
Addressing issues like crowding, bite problems, or jaw discrepancies early can help reduce the need for more invasive procedures later. Treatment during this phase may include appliances such as expanders, partial braces, or space maintainers. After completing Phase One, there is usually a resting period where we monitor growth until it’s time for Phase Two.
Phase Two
Phase Two treatment begins once all or most of the permanent teeth have erupted, usually around the ages of 11 to 13. This phase is designed to fine-tune the alignment of the teeth and jaws, ensuring a healthy bite and a beautiful smile. At Croco Orthodontics, we use full braces or clear aligners during Phase Two to move the teeth into their final positions and correct any remaining orthodontic issues.
The goal of Phase Two is to achieve lasting results by ensuring that the teeth are properly aligned and the bite is functioning correctly. Phase Two treatment typically lasts around 18 to 24 months, depending on the complexity of the case. By completing both phases of treatment, we set the foundation for a healthy, well-aligned smile that will last a lifetime. Throughout both phases, we are dedicated to providing personalized, high-quality care that meets the unique needs of each patient.
Dentofacial Orthopedics
Croco Orthodontics specializes in both orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics, which is the growth and development of the facial bones and jaws. While orthodontics primarily addresses the alignment of teeth, dentofacial orthopedics ensures that the jaws and facial structure develop in harmony, particularly in children and teens whose bones are still growing.
Dentofacial orthopedic treatment is often used to correct issues like jaw imbalances, underbites, overbites, and crossbites. Early intervention is key, as the goal is to guide the growth of the jaw and facial bones to prevent or minimize the need for more complex treatments later in life.
Our expertise in dentofacial orthopedics allows us to create a balanced, healthy foundation for a beautiful smile and proper jaw function. We tailor every treatment plan to ensure the best possible outcome for each patient.
Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
At Croco Orthodontics, we understand that some orthodontic issues require more than just braces or clear aligners. For certain complex cases involving the alignment of the jaws, oral and maxillofacial surgery may be necessary to achieve the best possible outcome. This type of surgery addresses the hard and soft tissues of the face, mouth, and jaws, helping to correct skeletal problems that can’t be resolved with orthodontics alone.
If surgery is needed, Dr. Croco works closely with a trusted oral surgeon to create a comprehensive treatment plan. This collaborative approach ensures that you receive the highest level of care at every stage of your treatment. The oral surgeon will perform the procedure, while Dr. Croco oversees your orthodontic treatment before and after surgery to guide your teeth into their ideal positions.
Oral and maxillofacial surgery can address a variety of conditions, including:
- Severe bite misalignment (overbites, underbites, and crossbites)
- Jaw growth discrepancies or asymmetries
- Issues with jaw function that affect chewing or speaking
- Sleep apnea caused by structural issues in the jaw
- Corrective procedures following trauma or injury
Corrective jaw surgery may be required to achieve the most functional and aesthetic result. We will carefully assess your condition using digital X-rays, 3D imaging, and thorough examination. Dr. Croco will explain the entire process in detail, so you understand how surgery fits into your overall treatment plan. Our goal is to ensure that your jaws are properly aligned and functioning, setting the stage for a long-lasting, beautiful smile.
At Croco Orthodontics, we are dedicated to providing personalized, high-quality care in collaboration with experienced oral surgeons. We will work together every step of the way to ensure a smooth, effective treatment process and deliver the best possible results.
Emergency Care
At Croco Orthodontics, your comfort and well-being are our top priorities, which is why we’re here to help if you experience any orthodontic emergencies. While true orthodontic emergencies are rare, it’s important to know what to do when something unexpected happens with your braces or appliances.
Here are some common orthodontic issues and how to handle them:
Loose or broken brackets
If a bracket becomes loose or breaks, it’s usually not an urgent situation, but it’s best to call our office so we can schedule a repair appointment. In the meantime, you can cover the bracket with orthodontic wax to keep it from irritating your gums or cheeks.
poking wires
Sometimes wires can shift and cause discomfort by poking the inside of your mouth. If this happens, you can use a pencil eraser or cotton swab to gently push the wire back into place. Orthodontic wax can also help cover the end of the wire to prevent irritation. If the discomfort persists, contact our office so we can adjust the wire for you.
loose wires or bands
If a wire or band comes loose, try to reposition it using clean tweezers or apply orthodontic wax to hold it in place temporarily. Call our office to schedule an appointment for a professional adjustment.
general discomfort
It’s common to feel some discomfort after getting braces or during an adjustment. This discomfort typically subsides within a few days and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and rinsing with warm salt water. If the pain persists beyond a week, please contact us for further guidance.
lost or broken retainers
If your retainer breaks or gets lost, call us as soon as possible. Retainers are essential for maintaining your results after orthodontic treatment, so it’s important to get a replacement quickly.
swallowed appliance
In rare cases, a small piece of an orthodontic appliance may come loose and be accidentally swallowed. If this happens and you experience any difficulty breathing or swallowing, seek immediate medical attention. If there are no severe symptoms, contact our office to schedule a repair.
when to call our office
If you experience any of these issues or have concerns about your braces or appliances, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Even if you’re not sure whether your issue is an emergency, we’re happy to help. At Croco Orthodontics, we’re committed to providing prompt care to ensure your treatment stays on track and your comfort is maintained.
In most cases, you can manage minor issues at home, but we’re always here to guide you through the steps or schedule a visit if needed. Our team is dedicated to making sure you feel confident and supported throughout your orthodontic journey.