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Raleigh Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment
At Carolina Braces, we believe that timing is one of the most important factors in creating a healthy, confident smile. That’s why we offer two-phase orthodontic treatment in Raleigh, NC. This proactive approach helps guide a child’s dental and jaw development in two carefully planned stages, setting the foundation for lasting oral health and a beautiful smile.
Led by board-certified orthodontists Dr. Robert Kent and Dr. Samantha Tagerman, our team provides personalized, family-friendly care to ensure your child receives the right treatment at the right time.
What Is Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment?
Two-phase orthodontic treatment is a specialized process that combines early intervention with later full orthodontic care. The first phase begins while a child still has baby teeth, focusing on guiding jaw growth and preventing serious problems. After a resting period, the second phase addresses the permanent teeth with braces or Invisalign.
This approach not only creates a straighter smile but also supports healthy jaw function, better breathing, and long-term oral wellness.
Phase One: Early Interceptive Treatment
Phase One typically begins between the ages of 6 and 10, when a child still has a mix of baby and permanent teeth. The goals of this stage include:
- Guiding jaw growth to ensure enough space for permanent teeth
- Correcting harmful oral habits (like thumb sucking)
- Reducing the risk of overcrowding or bite problems
- Improving airway and breathing patterns
- Preventing more severe orthodontic issues later
Treatment may involve appliances, partial braces, or expanders designed to gently shape the jaw and bite. Phase One helps create the foundation for healthier permanent teeth and often shortens the length of treatment needed later.
Resting Phase
After Phase One, your child enters the resting phase. During this time, we closely monitor their growth and development, but no active treatment takes place.
The goals of the resting phase include:
- Allowing permanent teeth to grow naturally
- Tracking jaw development and alignment
- Ensuring Phase One results are maintained
Regular checkups allow us to spot changes early and determine the best timing for Phase Two treatment.
Phase Two: Full Orthodontic Treatment
Phase Two usually begins in the early teenage years, once most or all permanent teeth have erupted. The goals of this stage are to:
- Perfect tooth alignment with braces or Invisalign
- Correct bite issues for better function and comfort
- Create a stable, balanced smile that lasts a lifetime
Because Phase One addressed jaw growth and space issues earlier, Phase Two is often simpler and more efficient than traditional single-phase treatment.
Who Needs Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment in Raleigh, NC?
Not every child needs two-phase treatment. However, it is especially beneficial for kids who show early signs of:
- Severe crowding or spacing issues
- Crossbite, overbite, or underbite
- Narrow jaws or jaw misalignment
- Early loss of baby teeth
- Prolonged thumb sucking or pacifier use
- Difficulty chewing, biting, or speaking clearly
- Mouth breathing or airway concerns
If you notice these signs in your child, an early orthodontic evaluation can determine whether two-phase treatment is the best option. At Carolina Braces, we recommend that children have their first orthodontic checkup by age 7, as advised by the American Association of Orthodontists.
Benefits of Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment
Two-phase treatment offers unique advantages that help children enjoy healthier smiles and better overall well-being:
- Early problem correction — Prevents small issues from becoming major concerns
- Better jaw alignment — Guides growth for proper bite function and airway health
- Improved confidence — Helps kids feel good about their smiles during critical developmental years
- Shorter Phase Two treatment — Often reduces the need for extractions or long-term braces later
- Long-lasting results — Creates a strong foundation for a lifetime of healthy teeth and jaws
Why Choose Carolina Braces?
Families across Raleigh trust Carolina Braces for two-phase orthodontic care because we combine advanced expertise with a supportive, family-centered approach. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Board-certified orthodontists — Dr. Kent and Dr. Tagerman have extensive experience in guiding children’s smiles at every stage of growth
- Personalized treatment plans — Every child receives care tailored to their unique needs and development
- Modern technology — Digital imaging and scans allow us to diagnose and plan treatment with precision
- Kid-friendly environment — We make orthodontic visits fun, comfortable, and stress-free for children and parents alike
- Convenient location — Our Raleigh office is easily accessible for families throughout the Triangle
At Carolina Braces, we don’t just straighten teeth — we build healthy, confident smiles for life.
Schedule Your Child’s Free Two-Phase Orthodontics Consultation in Raleigh
Early intervention can make a lifetime of difference. If you’re curious whether your child could benefit from two-phase treatment, Carolina Braces is here to help. Our Raleigh orthodontists provide expert, family-friendly care designed to support healthy development and lasting smiles.
Schedule your free consultation today and give your child the advantage of a strong, confident smile with Carolina Braces.