Phase 1 treatment (palatal expander + Partial Braces)

Staying ahead of problems: The value and importance of Phase 1 orthodontic treatment

An entire category of treatments exists to proactively address orthodontic and developmental issues early among some of our youngest pediatric patients in Mission Viejo, California. This category of treatment, interceptive or “Phase 1” orthodontics, involves evaluating, resolving, and monitoring for issues while the child is still growing – when anatomical and other anomalies can be corrected effectively and before they cause further damage and complications that can interfere with the child’s quality of life and overall health. The specific interventions that may be recommended by our orthodontist at SHN Orthodontics, Dr. Shannon Hilgers Nissen, include treatment with the likes of palatal expanders and partial braces. 

Timing and motivations for early treatment

There is no “ideal” or exact age for kids to begin orthodontic treatments or undergo assessments. However, the American Association of Orthodontists generally recommends that the initial evaluation occur around the age of seven. The reason for this recommendation is that, by this timeframe, most of our pediatric patients have “mixed dentition,” simply a way of referring to the presence of a mix of primary or “baby” teeth and secondary or “permanent” teeth. At this stage, it’s easier for Dr. Nissen to identify and correct tooth- and jaw-related problems sooner and more conservatively (without invasive or aggressive approaches such as surgery). Such interceptive/early orthodontic treatment strives to: 

  • Guide the proper growth of the child’s jaw
  • Facilitate the correct placements of secondary teeth
  • Manage the width of the upper and lower dental arches
  • Make more space for teeth
  • Correct unhealthy habits such as thumb-sucking
  • Improve minor speech impediments
  • Resolve chewing difficulties
  • And much more

Approaches

Every child is different. So, no two Phase 1 treatment plans are the same. Dr. Nissen may suggest palatal expanders to open up or expand the palate or the roof of the mouth. With the use of these special appliances, we create more room in the upper dental arch. This allows us to correct a variety of problems, from crossbite and overcrowding to mouth breathing.

Furthermore, the application of an expander can help your child avoid future trauma to the teeth, the removal of essential permanent teeth, and even jaw surgery. In Phase 1 orthodontics, partial braces are often advised. This alternative to “conventional” braces involves correcting a limited or small expanse of teeth. Since we are dealing with mixed dentition, the braces are generally used on those secondary teeth. They can reposition teeth that may have moved off-center and close excess spaces. 

Proactive care is the best care. If your child is due for an orthodontic evaluation or you notice concerns such as difficulty chewing food, contact SHN Orthodontics without delay. Our team in Mission Viejo, CA, can be reached at (949) 830-4101.

Dr. Shannon Hilgers Nissen, DMD, MS near me

Dr. Shannon Hilgers Nissen, DMD, MS

Shannon Hilgers Nissen, DMD, MS, studied at St. Margaret’s in San Juan Capistrano and obtained her BS in Psychology from Santa Clara University. After completing her Doctorate of Dental Medicine at Tufts University in Boston, she returned to Southern California and Loma Linda University where she received her Master of Science degree in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics.
Dr. Hilgers Nissen is a third-generation orthodontist, her father being Dr. James Hilgers. Her patients enjoy outstanding orthodontics, honest communication, and a friendly and professional atmosphere. She and her team enjoy treating their patients well and educating them about their oral health.