• Moving the front teeth back so they will be less susceptible to injury.
• Improving the relationship of upper and lower jaws, allowing more normal future growth and development.
• Using maximum advantage of growth for successful treatment.
• Improving facial appearance and self-esteem.
• Taking advantage of the good cooperation of patients at this age.
• Possibly avoiding or reducing the need for further treatment when patients are older.

• Braces- Placed on the upper and sometimes lower permanent teeth.
• Headgear- Worn to move the upper molars back and the jaw forward.
• Rapid Palatal Expander- Worn to widen the upper jaw.

Maintenance Phase
During the time between the first and second phase the patient will be seen approximately two times per year. The patient may wear a retainer during the Maintenance Phase.

Second Phase (if required)
During the first phase the orthodontist has no control over 16 unerupted permanent teeth. If they grow in and problems still exist, further treatment will be required. A separate fee will be quoted at that time. Treatment usually takes eighteen to twenty-four months at age 12 to 13 years.

Full Treatment
If Phase I treatment is completed, orthodontics can be started once all permanent teeth have erupted. Full treatment usually takes twenty to thirty months. The length of treatment depends on several factors, including: severity of the problem, age of the patient, patient cooperation, and consistency in keeping appointments.

Braces
Braces, also know as brackets, are the most common appliance orthodontists use to correct tooth problems. New dental technology has resulted in smaller, more comfortable and more efficient metal brackets or clear brackets.

Your orthodontist will review the different types of available brackets and recommend the most effective and comfortable option for you.

Brackets are usually bonded to each tooth with an orthodontic adhesive. Molar brackets are sometimes bonded and sometimes attached to a band which is fitted to the specific anatomy of the tooth. The brackets are connected to each other by an arch wire and held in place by "O" rings (available in a variety of colors) or spring clips.

Clear Retainer System
In some cases that require limited tooth movement, a series of clear retainers can be used to align the teeth.

Additional Appliances
In addition to braces, other appliances may be used during orthodontic treatment, including:

• Rapid Palatal Expander- This special appliance widens the roof of the mouth, allowing room for crowded teeth to grow naturally and/or expands the upper jaw to more closely fit the lower jaw.
• Lingual Arch - Fits on the inside of the lower teeth, from molar to molar, as a space maintainer.
• Headgear - Typically worn to move the upper molars back or hold the upper jaw back, slowing its growth, while the lower jaw is free to grow forward.