Once most or all primary or “baby” teeth have exfoliated, which is around age eleven to thirteen, we are ready to assess for phase II.

 

Now that the skeletal structure and jaws are in better balance with each other, we will focus on moving the teeth to work in harmony with the lips, cheeks, tongue, facial muscles and with each other.

 

This phase is much easier and shorter compared to if we did not go through phase I treatment. The results are also more predictable. Phase II can be done with clear aligners such as Invisalign® or braces. Braces can be white ceramic brackets but these are vulnerable to chipping and are difficult to remove once placed.

 

What will work best for phase II depends on the case and we work with the parent and patient to

see which way to go.