Two-Phase Treatment
Two-phase orthodontic treatment is a specialized process that combines early intervention with comprehensive treatment later on. It’s designed to guide jaw development, create space for permanent teeth, and address concerns before they become more complex.
The first phase typically begins between ages 7 and 10, while a child is still growing and has a mix of baby and permanent teeth. The second phase usually occurs during the early teen years, once most or all permanent teeth have erupted.
Phase One: Early Intervention
The goal of Phase One treatment is to address developmental concerns while the jaw is still growing. Because children’s bones are more adaptable at this stage, certain corrections are easier and more effective.
Phase One treatment may help:
- Guide jaw growth and facial development
- Correct harmful bite patterns (crossbite, underbite, severe overbite)
- Create space for permanent teeth
- Reduce crowding
- Lower the risk of impacted teeth
- Improve overall bite function
Not every child needs two-phase treatment. During your child’s orthodontic evaluation, our board-certified orthodontists will determine whether early intervention is necessary or if simple monitoring is the best approach.
Phase Two: Comprehensive Alignment
Once the permanent teeth have erupted, Phase Two focuses on detailed tooth alignment and bite correction. This stage typically involves braces or Invisalign and ensures that teeth are positioned for long-term function and aesthetics.
By addressing growth concerns early and fine-tuning alignment later, two-phase treatment can lead to:
- More stable results
- Improved facial balance
- Reduced risk of future complications
- A healthier, more confident smile
At Orthodontic Associates, we carefully monitor growing patients and only recommend early treatment when it provides clear long-term benefits. Our goal is never to begin treatment too soon — but rather at the right time.
Limited TMJ Treatment
The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) connect your jaw to your skull and play a critical role in speaking, chewing, and everyday function. When these joints are not functioning properly, patients may experience discomfort or limited jaw movement.
At Orthodontic Associates, we provide limited TMJ treatment designed to address bite-related jaw concerns when appropriate.
Common TMJ Symptoms
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Clicking or popping sounds
- Difficulty opening or closing the mouth
- Headaches or facial discomfort
- Jaw stiffness
Because bite alignment can influence how the jaw functions, orthodontic treatment may sometimes help relieve strain on the TMJ. Our board-certified orthodontists evaluate the relationship between your teeth, jaw position, and overall bite to determine whether orthodontic correction may improve symptoms.
A Conservative, Personalized Approach
TMJ concerns can have multiple causes, and not all cases require orthodontic treatment. We take a conservative, individualized approach and may collaborate with your general dentist or other specialists when necessary.
When appropriate, treatment may involve:
- Bite correction with braces or Invisalign
- Orthodontic adjustments to improve alignment
- Monitoring jaw function during treatment
Our focus is on improving comfort and function while protecting long-term oral health.
If you are experiencing jaw discomfort or suspect TMJ-related issues, we encourage you to schedule a consultation. We will carefully evaluate your symptoms and determine whether limited orthodontic intervention may be beneficial.
Early Growth & Development
A child’s smile goes through many changes between the ages of 6 and 12. During this time, the jaw is actively developing and permanent teeth are beginning to erupt. Monitoring early growth allows orthodontic concerns to be identified before they become more complex.
At Orthodontic Associates, we recommend an orthodontic evaluation around age 7. Even if treatment isn’t needed right away, early assessment allows our board-certified orthodontists to track jaw development and tooth eruption over time.
Why Early Growth Monitoring Matters
By observing growth patterns early, we can:
- Identify jaw discrepancies
- Detect crowding before it worsens
- Monitor eruption of permanent teeth
- Evaluate bite development
- Determine the ideal timing for treatment
In many cases, no immediate treatment is necessary. Instead, we provide complimentary growth monitoring visits to ensure your child’s smile is developing properly. Beginning treatment at the right time — not too early and not too late — leads to more predictable and stable results.
Our goal is proactive care. By understanding how your child’s face and jaw are developing, we can recommend the most effective and efficient orthodontic plan when the time is right.
Palate Expanders
A palate expander is an orthodontic appliance used to widen the upper jaw. This treatment is most effective in growing children and pre-teens, while the jaw is still developing and responsive to guidance.
When the upper jaw is too narrow, it can lead to:
- Crowded teeth
- Crossbites
- Impacted teeth
- Breathing concerns in some cases
- Imbalanced facial development
A narrow upper jaw can also prevent permanent teeth from erupting properly. By gently widening the palate over time, we create the space necessary for proper alignment and improved bite function.
Types of Palate Expanders
Invisalign® Palatal Expander
From the makers of Invisalign clear aligners! The Invisalign® Palatal Expander System makes room for adult teeth in kids ages 6-11 using a series of 3D-printed expanders that gradually widen to create space for adult teeth.
Metal Expanders
Metal expanders are bonded to the teeth using printed metal technology instead of using the traditional more uncomfortable bands.
At Orthodontic Associates, we use 3D printed metal technology to create a truly custom appliance—which offers benefits to both the orthodontic team and patients. The flexibility in custom digital design provides greater treatment efficiency and ensures a precise fit. Unlike traditional metal bands where separators are often required, 3D metal printing saves valuable chair time, eliminates the discomfort of separators, and provides a better patient experience.
How a Palate Expander Works
The appliance is custom-made to fit comfortably in the upper arch and is gradually adjusted over several weeks. These small adjustments encourage the upper jaw to widen in a controlled and stable manner.
Because children’s bones are still growing, expansion can occur more efficiently and with lasting results.
Benefits of Palatal Expansion
- Reduces crowding
- Corrects crossbites
- Improves bite alignment
- May reduce the need for tooth extractions later
- Supports balanced facial growth
Our orthodontists carefully evaluate each child to determine whether expansion is appropriate. Not every patient requires a palate expander — but when indicated, it can play an important role in creating a healthy foundation for future orthodontic treatment.
Limited Treatments (Adults)
Not every adult patient requires comprehensive, full-arch orthodontic treatment. In some cases, a limited orthodontic approach can address specific concerns efficiently and effectively.
Limited treatment focuses on correcting minor alignment issues, such as:
- Slight crowding
- Minor spacing
- Small bite discrepancies
- Teeth that have shifted after previous orthodontic treatment
- Cosmetic adjustments to front teeth
When Is Limited Treatment Appropriate?
Our board-certified orthodontists will carefully evaluate your bite and overall oral health to determine whether limited treatment is a safe and effective option. The goal is always to ensure that cosmetic improvements do not compromise long-term function or stability.
When appropriate, limited treatment may involve:
- Braces on select teeth
- Invisalign with a shorter aligner series
- Minor bite adjustments
- Benefits for Adult Patients
- Shorter treatment time in qualifying cases
- More affordable option for minor corrections
- Improved smile aesthetics
- Enhanced confidence
Even small improvements can make a meaningful difference in your smile. However, we take a thoughtful and honest approach — if comprehensive treatment would provide healthier long-term results, we will discuss that recommendation with you.
At Orthodontic Associates, our focus is always on creating balanced, functional, and lasting smiles — whether that requires full treatment or a more targeted solution.
Teeth Whitening
A straight smile is beautiful — but a bright smile makes it shine. At Orthodontic Associates, we offer Opalescence professional teeth whitening to help patients enhance the appearance of their smiles after orthodontic treatment, or anytime they want a confidence boost.
Over time, teeth can become stained from coffee, tea, soda, red wine, tobacco use, and natural aging. Professional whitening offers a safe, effective way to noticeably lighten your teeth.
Why Choose Professional Whitening?
Unlike over-the-counter whitening products, professional whitening treatments are:
- Stronger and more effective
- Customized for your smile
- Designed to minimize sensitivity
- Supervised by dental professionals
Because we understand your orthodontic history and tooth alignment, we can recommend the safest and most appropriate whitening option for your smile.
The Perfect Finish to Orthodontic Treatment
Many patients choose to whiten their teeth after braces or Invisalign to complete their smile transformation. Once your teeth are properly aligned, whitening can enhance the final result and highlight your new, confident smile.
If you’re interested in teeth whitening, our team will walk you through your options and help you determine the best timing — especially if you are currently in orthodontic treatment.
Vivera Retainer Subscription Program
Completing orthodontic treatment is an exciting milestone — but maintaining your results is just as important as achieving them.
Teeth naturally shift over time, which is why wearing a retainer as directed is essential. At Orthodontic Associates, we offer a Vivera retainer subscription program to make protecting your smile simple and stress-free.
Vivera retainers are custom-made using the same advanced digital technology behind Invisalign aligners. They are crafted from durable, high-quality material designed for long-lasting strength and clarity.
Why Choose Vivera Retainers?
- Custom-fit using precise digital scans
- Stronger and more durable than many traditional retainers
- Clear and comfortable design
- Made to maintain your exact smile alignment
Retainers can become worn, lost, or damaged over time — especially for teens and busy adults. Our subscription program ensures you always have access to replacement retainers when needed, helping you avoid unwanted shifting.
Benefits of the program include:
- Simplified replacement process
- Continued protection of your orthodontic investment
- Peace of mind knowing your smile is covered
- Long-term retention support
Because your first retainer is included in your all-inclusive treatment cost, we make it easy to get started. The Vivera retainer subscription program is simply an added layer of protection for maintaining your results for years to come.
Orthodontic Emergencies
Orthodontic issues can happen when you least expect them, and when they do, you shouldn’t have to navigate them alone. At Orthodontic Associates, caring for Oklahoma families is at the heart of everything we do. If you’re experiencing discomfort or an issue with your braces or aligners, our team is here to help.
We’re committed to providing care that is not only effective but also comfortable and responsive. Whether it’s a minor concern or something more urgent, you can count on us for guidance and support.
What Is Considered an Orthodontic Emergency?
Most orthodontic issues are not true emergencies, but some situations do require prompt attention. Please contact our office if you experience:
- Severe or persistent pain
- An injury or accident involving the teeth or jaw
- A broken bracket or appliance that cannot be managed at home
- A wire that is causing significant discomfort or irritation
If you’re unsure whether your situation is urgent, it’s always best to reach out. Our team will help you determine the next steps.
How to Reach Us
If you are experiencing an orthodontic emergency, please call our office at (405) 947-1526.
- During office hours, our team will assist you as quickly as possible
- After hours, simply follow the instructions on our answering system
An on-call assistant and one of our orthodontists will be notified and will return your call in a timely manner. If needed, we are available to speak with you — and in certain situations, arrange to see you in-office during evenings or weekends.
Quick Tips for Common Issues
While we’re always here to help, some minor orthodontic concerns can be temporarily managed at home until you’re able to visit our office:
- Poking wire: Use orthodontic wax to cover the area causing irritation
- Loose bracket: Leave it in place if possible and call us for guidance
- Mild soreness: Over-the-counter pain relief and soft foods can help
If discomfort persists or worsens, don’t hesitate to contact us.
We understand that orthodontic concerns can be stressful — especially for children and teens. As a family-focused practice, we treat every patient with the same care and attention we would want for our own families.
If something doesn’t feel right, we want to hear from you. Our goal is to resolve issues quickly, minimize discomfort, and keep your treatment on track.