A Strategic Approach to Lifelong Smiles

At Michael Richards Orthodontics, we understand that every smile is unique, especially when it comes to children. That’s why we offer Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment in Riverton, UT, a proactive and personalized approach to orthodontic care that helps guide proper jaw development and tooth alignment from a young age. This treatment strategy is ideal for children who show early signs of bite or alignment concerns and can set the foundation for a healthy, confident smile for life.

What Is Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment?

Two-phase orthodontic treatment is a specialized process that addresses orthodontic problems in two distinct stages, often starting when a child is around 6 to 10 years old and continuing in their early teens. It’s used to correct issues that may be more difficult—or even impossible—to fix later without surgery or more extensive treatment.

Phase One: Early Intervention (Ages 6–10)

The first phase focuses on guiding jaw growth and development while the child still has a mix of baby and permanent teeth. It’s particularly beneficial for:

• Severe crowding or spacing issues
• Crossbites, overbites, or underbites
• Narrow dental arches
• Habits like thumb sucking or tongue thrusting
• Breathing issues caused by jaw positioning

During Phase One, Dr. Michael Richards may recommend limited orthodontic appliances such as expanders, partial braces, or space maintainers to create a healthier foundation for permanent teeth.

Resting Period

After Phase One, your child enters a resting period where their remaining permanent teeth are allowed to grow in naturally. During this time, our team continues to monitor development and determine the optimal timing for the second phase.

Phase Two: Final Alignment (Typically Ages 11–14)

Once all the permanent teeth have erupted, we begin Phase Two. This stage usually involves full braces or Invisalign Teen to fine-tune tooth alignment and ensure a stable, functional bite. The goal is to achieve a harmonious smile that looks great, functions well, and lasts a lifetime.

Why Choose Two-Phase Treatment?

While not every child will need two-phase treatment, it can provide major benefits for those with specific developmental needs. Early intervention can:

• Prevent the need for tooth extractions
• Reduce the risk of jaw surgery later in life
• Create room for erupting permanent teeth
• Correct harmful habits before they impact facial development
• Improve facial symmetry and airway health

In many cases, two-phase treatment simplifies future orthodontic care and leads to more stable, long-term results.

Signs Your Child May Benefit from Two-Phase Treatment

Wondering if your child might be a candidate? Here are some common signs to look for:

• Early or late loss of baby teeth
• Difficulty chewing or biting
• Noticeable overbite or underbite
• Teeth that appear overly crowded
• Speech impediments
• Mouth breathing or snoring at night

If you notice any of these issues, we recommend scheduling a complimentary orthodontic evaluation around age 7. Early screening doesn’t always mean immediate treatment, but it helps us identify problems before they become more serious.

Why Riverton Families Trust Michael Richards Orthodontics

Dr. Michael Richards is known throughout Riverton for his gentle, thoughtful approach to children’s orthodontic care. With years of experience in early intervention and two-phase treatment, our team works closely with parents to create a personalized care plan that supports your child’s long-term oral health.

We offer:

• State-of-the-art diagnostics and digital imaging
• A kid-friendly, welcoming environment
• Transparent communication every step of the way
• Flexible payment options for peace of mind
• A commitment to results that last a lifetime

Your child’s smile deserves the best possible start. If you’re curious about Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment in Riverton, UT, we’re here to help you make informed, confident decisions. Contact Michael Richards Orthodontics today to schedule a free consultation and learn how early orthodontic care can set your child up for lifelong smile success.