One of the most effective methods for achieving this is two-phase orthodontic treatment—a process designed to guide a child’s developing mouth and ensure the best possible outcome for alignment, bite, and facial balance. For some children, this approach can make the difference between a simple orthodontic experience and a more complex treatment later in life. At Burlingame Smile Studio, Dr. April Lee and her team specialize in helping young patients build beautiful, healthy smiles from the ground up.
Phase One: Building a Strong Foundation
The first phase of two-phase orthodontic treatment focuses on setting the stage for healthy growth. During this stage, Dr. Lee works to guide the development of the jaw and create the right conditions for adult teeth to emerge properly. Early intervention can help prevent a variety of future dental concerns, including bite misalignment, difficulty chewing, speech problems, and the potential need for extractions or surgery. By addressing these issues while the jaw is still growing, children can often avoid more invasive treatments later.
The Resting Period: Allowing Nature to Work
After Phase One, there is a resting period where your child’s remaining permanent teeth are given time to erupt naturally. This stage allows the results of the first phase to take hold while minimizing interference with natural dental development. During this period, Dr. Lee will monitor your child’s progress to ensure their teeth are emerging as expected and that the foundation established in Phase One continues to support a balanced smile.
Phase Two: Perfecting the Smile
Once all the permanent teeth have erupted, Phase Two begins. This phase focuses on precision and aesthetics. Using braces or aligners, Dr. Lee positions each tooth in its optimal location for function and appearance. The goal is to create perfect harmony among the lips, jaw, and teeth—resulting in a beautiful, confident, and functional smile that will last a lifetime. Phase Two completes the work that Phase One began, fine-tuning every detail to achieve long-term stability and balance.
Why Early Treatment Matters
If two-phase treatment is recommended, it’s because it offers clear advantages for your child’s dental health. Postponing or skipping early intervention can sometimes lead to more complicated procedures later on, including extractions or surgery. Early orthodontic care is often more efficient, more comfortable, and more cost-effective than corrective treatment during the teen or adult years.
A Lifetime of Confident Smiles
At Burlingame Smile Studio, Dr. April Lee is passionate about helping children achieve healthy, balanced smiles through personalized care and advanced orthodontic techniques. Two-phase orthodontic treatment allows her to address developmental concerns early and ensure lasting results. To find out if your child could benefit from this approach, schedule an orthodontic evaluation today. Burlingame Smile Studio proudly serves families in Burlingame, Hillsborough, and Millbrae, creating confident smiles that last a lifetime.
Contact Dr. April Lee at Burlingame Smile Studio
(650) 231-2680
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
1740 Marco Polo Way Ste 12
Burlingame, California
94010