In this phase, the remaining permanent teeth are
allowed to erupt. Retainers are normally worn for
a period of time after the appliances are removed,
however they are discontinued as the permanent teeth
continue to erupt. It is best to allow existing
permanent teeth some freedom of movement while final
eruption of the teeth occurs.
At the end of the first phase treatment, the teeth
are not in their final positions. This is determined
and accomplished in the second phase of treatment.
The duration of the intermediate retention phase
is approximately 12 to 14 months. Periodic observation
appointments are necessary, usually on a six month
basis. Occasionally when a patient is being treated
with a two phase program, the permanent teeth erupt
more rapidly than anticipated. In this situation
we generally continue directly into the second phase
of treatment.
