comprehensive treatment
Comprehensive treatment refers to orthodontic treatment in the adult dentition.
Both adolescents and adults can receive comprehensive treatment. If a child received a Phase One treatment, then comprehensive treatment is commonly referred to as “Phase Two.” Regardless, around age 12 is when all adult teeth have erupted.
At this stage of dental development, the orthodontist can evaluate how the top and bottom teeth fit together and make recommendations on how to effectively and efficiently correct a malocclusion. The top and bottom teeth are treated simultaneously with braces or aligners. Elastics are often used to help coordinate the bite.
The average time in treatment is around 24 months, with regular adjustments every 6-8 weeks. At the conclusion of treatment, retainers will be worn to maintain the alignment of the teeth.
