What is Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment?

Two-phase orthodontic treatment is a specialized approach that begins while a child’s jaw is still developing. Instead of waiting until every adult tooth has come in, our orthodontists use the first phase to guide jaw growth and correct specific bite problems, then use the second phase to move each permanent tooth into its final position.

Treating at the right time can improve dental and facial balance, support better oral health, and help keep more serious problems from developing later. Not every child needs early treatment, which is why we evaluate each patient individually before recommending a plan.

Find a Location

Conditions Two-Phase Treatment Can Address

The first phase of treatment works with your child's natural growth. Appliances such as expanders, partial braces, or retainers can widen a narrow upper jaw, create space for adult teeth that haven't come in yet, and improve how the upper and lower jaws meet. Correcting these issues early can make the second phase simpler. Two-phase treatment is commonly recommended for:
Crowding
The jaw doesn't have enough room for adult teeth to come in straight; early treatment can create that space before they erupt.
Spacing
Noticeable gaps between teeth that can affect how the bite fits together as adult teeth arrive.
Crossbite
Upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth, often because the upper jaw is narrow; an expander can widen it while the jaw is still growing.
Overbite
The upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth too much, which early treatment can improve by guiding jaw growth.
Underbite
The lower teeth sit in front of the upper teeth, a problem that is easier to influence while the jaws are still developing.

Trusted by Patients Throughout the Shreveport Metro Area

Healthy Smiles at Every Age

Orthodontic treatment is highly effective at absolutely any stage of life. We design custom treatment plans tailored precisely to the biological and lifestyle needs of children, teens, and adults.

What to Expect During Two-Phase Treatment

Early Orthodontic Evaluation

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic check-up no later than age 7. During a complimentary consultation, we take digital records, evaluate jaw growth and incoming adult teeth, and tell you whether early treatment is needed now or whether it's better to wait and monitor.

Phase One

Usually recommended between ages 7 and 10. Appliances such as expanders, partial braces, or retainers guide jaw growth, create room for adult teeth, and correct bite problems. Phase one typically lasts 12 to 18 months.

Resting Period

Once phase one is complete, treatment pauses while the remaining adult teeth erupt and the jaws continue to develop. Your child may wear a retainer during this time to hold the progress made in phase one.

Phase Two

Usually begins around age 12 or 13, once all adult teeth have come in. Full braces or other orthodontic appliances finalize the alignment of each tooth and improve how the bite looks and functions. Phase two typically lasts 18 to 24 months.

Ongoing Retainer Wear

After phase two, a custom retainer keeps teeth in their new positions. We'll give your child a clear wear schedule so the results from both phases last.

Orthodontic Technology We Use

At Cosse & Silmon Orthodontics, we uphold the highest standards of clinical care by integrating advanced orthodontic technology into every single step of your treatment. By utilizing cutting-edge tools like the iTero Element digital intraoral scanners, digital X-rays, and treatment planning software, we eliminate the need for messy, uncomfortable putty impressions. This state-of-the-art technology guarantees greater clinical precision, faster overall treatment times, and a drastically more comfortable, predictable patient experience.

Explore Our Technology

Learn More

How Much Does Two-Phase Treatment Cost?

The cost of two-phase treatment depends on your child’s needs, including the appliances used in phase one, the complexity of the bite or spacing problem, and how long each phase is expected to take. At your child’s complimentary consultation, we’ll walk you through the full treatment plan and every associated cost before anything begins.

We offer several ways to make treatment fit your family’s budget:

  • Interest-Free Financing: In-house monthly plans built around your household budget.
  • Insurance Benefits: We accept most major dental insurance plans with orthodontic coverage and file the claims for you.
  • FSA & HSA Accounts: Use pre-tax dollars from a flexible spending or health savings account.
  • Paid-in-Full Discounts: Courtesy discounts are available when treatment is paid in full at the start.

If you have any questions regarding your billing options, don’t hesitate to reach out to our office staff directly.

Two-Phase Treatment FAQs

Orthodontic Care in the Shreveport Area

Cosse & Silmon Orthodontics is proud to serve patients throughout the greater Shreveport area. Find the office nearest you and schedule your consultation today.

Bossier City Office

Bossier City Office

318-869-1248

4001 Viking Dr
Ste B
Bossier City, LA 71111
  • Today's Hours Closed 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Shreveport – Carroll St. Office

Shreveport – Carroll St. Office

318-862-1248

230 Carroll St
#1
Shreveport, LA 71105
  • Today's Hours Closed 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
South Shreveport – Ellerbe Rd. Office

South Shreveport – Ellerbe Rd. Office

318-786-1045

9091 Ellerbe Rd
Shreveport, LA 71106
  • Today's Hours Closed

Start Your Journey to a Straighter Smile with Cosse & Silmon Orthodontics

Ready to transform your confidence? The expert team at Cosse & Silmon Orthodontics is here to guide you toward a healthier, more radiant smile. Schedule your complimentary consultation today.

Schedule Consultation