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How to Start a Mixed Dentition Case with Orthosnap

Ma Allysa Suazo avatar
Written by Ma Allysa Suazo
Updated this week

Treating mixed dentition cases, when patients have both baby and permanent teeth, requires a phased and flexible approach. Orthosnap has developed specific protocols to handle these cases with precision and predictability.

Here’s what you’ll need to get started:


📻 Radiographs Are Required

Submit a full set of diagnostic radiographs (typically a pano, sometimes a ceph). These are essential to assess:

  • Eruption patterns

  • Space availability

  • Root and bone structure


🪥 Dental Monitoring (DM) Is Mandatory

Due to constant changes during this stage, Dental Monitoring is required. DM allows for:

  • Remote tracking of tooth movement

  • Early detection of eruption changes

  • Timely adjustments between visits


👩‍⚕️ Treatment Happens in Phases

Mixed dentition treatment isn’t one-size-fits-all. It happens in multiple phases:

  • Phase 1: Early alignment and space maintenance

  • Retention Stage: Hold results while waiting for permanent teeth

  • Phase 2: Final detailing once all teeth have erupted


🩺 New Staging Protocol

Our updated staging protocol accounts for:

  • Partially erupted teeth

  • Future eruption paths

  • Controlled movement with room for growth


😬 Thinner Aligner Material

Orthosnap uses a special thinner aligner material for these cases:

  • More comfortable for younger patients

  • Safer for developing dentition

  • Promotes better compliance


😁 Retention Aligners Between Phases

Custom retention aligners are provided between active phases to:

  • Maintain progress

  • Preserve space

  • Prevent relapse during eruption


🌟 New Scans Between Each Phase

A fresh intraoral scan is required before each new phase to:

  • Capture new tooth positions

  • Update treatment goals

  • Ensure aligner accuracy

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