Orthodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that plays an essential role in remodeling the occlusion and teeth alignment, intending to revitalize your smile. This greatly boosts self-esteem and confidence. The Department of General Dentistry in Scottsdale, AZ offers several orthodontic services to improve aesthetics and oral functions like chewing and speech.

This informative blog will highlight the key goals of orthodontic treatment and the different phases involved.

Orthodontic imperfections are common but extremely complex. If left untreated these can lead to a cascade of unwanted consequences and complications, especially in children. This can affect the permanent teeth eruption and alignment, leading to orthodontic imperfections like overbite, deep bite, underbite, crossbite, and open bite in the future. 

What are the different phases of orthodontic treatment?

Orthodontic treatment typically involves three main phases. These include:

Phase 1: Oral examination and treatment planning

  • This is the initial phase involving consultation and evaluation of your oral cavity and specific oral needs. 
  • The goal of this phase is to identify the orthodontic problem and to determine the exact diagnosis since it paves the way for an appropriate treatment plan.
  • This phase includes the following assessment:
    • Assessment of dental and medical history
    • Recording oral impressions
    • Recording dental X-rays of the jaws and teeth
    • Capturing computer-generated images of the head, neck, and face

Phase 2: Active treatment

  • This phase involves the actual treatment when your orthodontist designs an appropriate treatment plan to align your teeth and correct orthodontic flaws. 
  • Your orthodontist may recommend any one of the following devices based on your individual needs: 
    • Fixed braces
    • Removable invisible aligners 
    • Headgears
    • Palatal expanders
  • These devices involve the following functions:
    • Alignment and leveling 
    • Bite correction 
    • Space correction 
  • Once the treatment is completed and the desired results are achieved your orthodontist removes the appliances accordingly.

Phase 3: Teeth retention

  • When your appliances are removed, your orthodontists will design specific retainers for you.
  • These appliances ensure that the teeth do not retract to their original position, failing your orthodontic treatment. 
  • You are advised to wear retainers for a specific duration of time each day to allow the bone to reform and stabilize the teeth in their new, correct alignment.  

Orthodontic treatment is necessary for addressing dental imperfections that affect oral form and function. Divided into three phases, it involves a comprehensive evaluation of individual needs to plan treatment accordingly. Gradual progression is essential to prevent undue strain or pressure on the teeth.