The NEXT TWELVE PERMANENT TEETH in most situations appear between the ages of 10 and 14 and include the permanent bicuspids and canines in each of the four corners of the mouth. This period of tooth eruption is commonly called the late mixed dentition stage.
Problems that are treated involve crowding, spacing, protrusion, impaction, and missing teeth as well as crossbites.
For many documented reasons, this type of care is the most commonly employed treatment in our practice and takes place during the late mixed dentition stage.
The Usual Process of Late Mixed Dention Treatment
Most patients will first get braces placed on their upper incisors and first molar teeth. Springs, wires, expanders and other devices are utilized to shape the upper arch. Symmetry is developed and the smile is established. During this time lower jaw growth is monitored.
Decisions are then made regarding headgear, tooth removals or additional devices such as class 2 correctors, based on the appearance of the upper lip and smile. Braces are then placed on the lower arch to create a healthy occlusion or bite.
Twelve-year molars are braced after they erupt. Elastics or rubber bands are utilized in order to bring the teeth and jaws into better balance. The bite is adjusted and braces are removed and retainers placed.
Retainers are usually worn full time. Following that period, retainers are worn for 2 to 3 months, during which time teeth settle and stabilize, or may be worn during the evening only for life.
Crowding
ProXbite
Expander