Early Treatment

Two-phase treatment occurs when a patient is evaluated and needs intervention before starting regular orthodontic treatment, resulting in two separate treatment plans.

The first phase of treatment, Phase I, usually occurs when the patient is a child and still has his or her primary teeth. The Phase I treatment plan can include preventive, interceptive or modifying treatment. Orthodontic appliances may be placed to prevent a problem from occurring, correct a current problem or help direct jawbone growth. Multiple problems with tooth alignment, gums, jaws and facial problems can be corrected with Phase I treatment. Another common added benefit of Phase I treatment is less Phase II treatment time.

Typically, Phase II treatment is normal orthodontic treatment. This involves placing braces on the patient once his or her permanent teeth have erupted. The braces straighten the permanent teeth and finish correctly aligning the patient’s jaw. Our goal for your two-phase orthodontic treatment is to give you correctly aligned teeth that provide ideal jaw function and a great smile!

When is the best time to begin orthodontics?

Though an orthodontist can enhance a smile at any age, there is an optimal time period to begin treatment. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that the initial orthodontic evaluation should occur by age 7. Many of the dentists in our community have been trained to identify orthodontic problems early, and may refer you to our office earlier than age 7.

Why are children being evaluated at such an early age?

Evaluation before the age of 7 provides both timely detection of problems and greater opportunity for more effective treatment. Early treatment can guide erupting teeth into a more favorable position, regulate the width of the upper and lower dental arches, gain space for permanent teeth, avoid the need for permanent tooth extractions, reduce the likelihood of impacted permanent teeth, correct thumb sucking, and eliminate abnormal swallowing or speech problems. When orthodontic intervention is not necessary, an orthodontist can carefully monitor growth and development and begin treatment when it is ideal.

Does early treatment benefit all children?

Early treatment does not necessarily benefit all children. There are a number of orthodontic problems that can be treated more effectively when all the permanent teeth have erupted. An individual treatment plan is developed for each child. If the doctor decides the patient is not ready for treatment, our office will continue to monitor their growth every 6 to 12 months.

If a child completes early orthodontic treatment, will they need braces as a teen?

Early treatment can begin the correction of significant problems, prevent more severe problems from developing, and simplify future treatment. When a child completes early orthodontic treatment, not all of their permanent teeth have erupted. Due to this, their final alignment may not have been perfected. Typically, a shortened second phase of treatment in the teen years completes the correction.

Does my child still need to see their dentist during orthodontic treatment?

Absolutely! We recommend your child sees their dentist every 6 months for regular cleanings during orthodontic treatment.

What Our Patients Are Saying
It's rare to have that doctor experience where they truly understand your individual situation and can finally explain why you have these problems, even when other doctors didn't believe you. I had that experience with Dr. Keesler. He explained so many of my unanswered questions. I can tell by his recommendations that he cares about what's in my best interest. It's so refreshing to have a doctor so intelligent who really cares about helping his patients. The staff is very friendly and kind.
T.V.
We love Keesler Orthodontics!! The office is fun and colorful; which completely puts my son at ease. But the best part is the staff… they're kind, knowledgeable and have treated us with respect. Would recommend them to anyone!!
A.M.
After seeing multiple dentists in many states, my orthodontics hold up to exceptional standards 15 years later. My dentists repeatedly comment on the straightness of my teeth and placement of my permanent retainer 18 years after my braces were removed.
B.D.
Amazing staff! Make even adults feel great! Even through the pandemic, their service was amazing. The cleanliness of the building was too. I will always recommend Keesler Orthodontics! Thank you all for your amazing hospitality and amazing work you have done!
B.W.
All 3 of my children went to Keesler Orthodontics! Dr. Jeff, Dr. Marissa, and the entire staff are great!! Always happy and ready to help. We have one more child to get braces and she will definitely be going to Keesler to complete our perfect smiles!!
A.Q.
Best Orthodontist in the area! Very professional, knowledgeable and do great work! I wouldn't take my kids anywhere else.
S.P.
Both of our kids have had orthodontic services at Kessler Orthodontics and the experience could not of been better. The staff has always been professional and kind and the doctors as well. Thank you so much for a great experience! I can't recommend them highly enough!
T.W.
I'm so impressed with Keesler Orthodontist! The staff is always friendly and they go out of their way to make sure everyone has a positive experience. They called the day after my daughter's expanders were put on to check how everything was going and even sent some coupons in the mail for some free shakes! My daughter isn't afraid to go and looks forward to her next appointment! I would highly recommend them!
B.B.
I highly recommend Keesler Orthodontics. Everyone is so nice and accommodating- they are so friendly, all of the time. Had a great experience and love my new smile.
G.G.
Keesler Orthodontics has been nothing short of amazing. They are very knowledgeable and help ease worry. They make teeth health fun and not scary at all. They help answer questions and take time to make sure you feel comfortable with everything. We always recommend Keesler to friends and family members looking for wonderful orthodontic care!
E.W.
Friendly and informative. Always great customer service and keeps us informed of every step of the orthodontic journey. Could not recommend them more.
N.L.
Compared to other places I've been, Keesler Orthodontics is more informative and reliable. Everything was explained to us very well. We were left with no doubts after the examination and started the treatment immediately. The doctors and the staff are all very friendly and helpful.
S.K.
Contact Us
1524 S Commercial Street
Neenah, WI 54956
P. (920) 729-0889
Monday 7:00am - 4:00pm
Tuesday 7:00am - 4:00pm
Wednesday 7:00am - 4:00pm
Thursday 7:00am - 4:00pm
Friday 8:00am - 12:00pm (administrative staff only)
links-aao.png links-invisalign.png abo_logo.jpg logo-ehaso.jpg Pierre Fauchard Academy.png Wisconsin Society of Orthodontists.png Dental Forum.jpg acp.png