Phase 1 Orthodontics – Nashua, NH

Addressing and Preventing Orthodontic Problems

It’s common for parents to assume that they don’t have to think about braces until their child is in their teens. In reality, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends starting the process when they are seven! This is crucial because – even if they have a mixture of their baby and adult teeth – we want to address existing orthodontic issues and prevent others from developing in the future. To learn more about Phase 1 orthodontics, keep reading or schedule an appointment with our Nashua orthodontist!

Why Choose Simply Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics for Phase 1 Orthodontics?

Pediatric Dentist and Orthodontist On-Staff
We Accept All Dental Insurance Plans
Convenient After-School Hours

How Phase 1 Orthodontics Works

Phase 1 orthodontic treatment is customized to each patient’s unique needs, so the process looks a bit different for everyone. Of course, the first step is always the same: the consultation with our talented orthodontist, Dr. Sam Alkhoury. If he determines that your child would benefit from early orthodontics, then he will create a personalized treatment plan with the necessary appliances, like an expander, a space maintainer, or even specialized braces; all with the goal of improving the alignment of their teeth and their bite.

Smiling child giving dentist a high-five

Who is a Good Candidate for Phase 1 Orthodontics?

At your child’s routine dental checkups, their pediatric dentist will keep an eye out for the following:

Crooked teeth
Spaced-out teeth
Protruding teeth
A disproportionate jaw

It’s also important that you keep an eye out for other warning signs of orthodontic problems, like if your child has difficulty enunciating clearly, they breathe through their mouth constantly, or they bite the inside of their cheeks.

Child smiling while sitting in treatment chair

The Benefits of Phase 1 Orthodontics

Phase 1 orthodontics can address many of the problems we’ve listed above – from trouble speaking clearly to premature wear from crooked teeth. One of the biggest benefits, however, is that this orthodontic treatment can help prevent certain problems from arising altogether, like a considerable overbite. That’s why the American Association of Orthodontists encourages parents to bring their child in for their first visit when they are seven; the goal is to address existing problems while also improving the look, health, and function of their smile throughout their life!

Phase 1 Orthodontics FAQs

Is Phase 1 Orthodontics Painful?

It’s very common for children to experience a bit of nervousness leading up to their first appointment. If it’s stemming from fear of Phase 1 orthodontic treatment being painful, then you can reassure your little one that they have nothing to worry about. Although some mild soreness is expected from time to time, there are several ways to easily combat it, including using a cold compress for 10 minutes at a time, sticking to soft foods, using dental wax, and taking OTC pain medication as directed.

Does Phase 1 Orthodontics Affect Diet & Nutrition?

That depends on the appliance. If your child has a permanent appliance, then it’s best that they avoid extremely hard, sticky, and crunchy foods that can cause it to break or come out of place. Instead, they should opt for softer foods that are packed with nutrients, like oatmeal, cooked vegetables, plain yogurt, and vegetable soup.

Is it Okay for a Child to Play Sports While Wearing Braces?

If your child participates in sports, then you’ll be happy to know that their orthodontic treatment won’t stop them from doing so. In order to ensure that their teeth, gums, and orthodontic appliances remain unharmed in the process, we will have a custom mouthguard made. That way, they can play to their heart’s desire without risking the health of their smile or the progress of their treatment.

Important note: If your child chips a tooth or damages their orthodontic appliance while on the court, field, or stage, don’t hesitate to contact us ASAP to schedule an emergency appointment.

How Do I Know My Child Needs Phase 1 Orthodontics?

The best way to find out if your child would benefit from Phase 1 Orthodontics is by scheduling a consultation with our dedicated orthodontist in Nashua. That said, there are a few things we recommend keeping an eye out for since they are common precursors, including crooked teeth, a misaligned jaw, trouble chewing properly, and difficulty enunciating clearly. If you notice any of these and your child is around the age of 7, then bring them in for an appointment so we can determine if Phase 1 Orthodontics is right for them.

What Issues Can Phase 1 Orthodontics Address?

Parents are often surprised to hear just how versatile Phase 1 Orthodontics is. In addition to fixing overcrowded and gapped teeth, it can address tooth protrusion and bite problems (i.e., underbites, overbites, crossbites). In other words, this orthodontic treatment can improve the look, health, and function of your child’s smile.

What Happens After Phase 1 Orthodontics?

Phase 1 Orthodontics usually takes between 9 and 12 months, but what happens after that? Well, that depends! Sometimes, that’s all that’s needed to improve the look and function of your child’s smile. Other times, it’s just the first step, meaning Phase 2 Orthodontics is needed down the line. Rest assured, we will share our recommendations and answer any questions you have so you and your child know exactly what to expect.