Should You Take a Phase 1 Interceptive Transfer Case?

When it comes to your phase 1 interceptive patients, it’s always important to ensure you’re taking the right approach – but when it comes to transfer cases in orthodontics, things can be a little more complex, and ensuring you know the patient’s history of treatment is essential. But should you even be taking a phase 1 interceptive transfer patient? Well, today’s guide has covered the key things you should consider to help you decide whether phase 1 interceptive transfer cases are right for you.
Why are Phase 1 Interceptive Transfers Complex?
Unfortunately, phase 1 interceptive transfer cases are often in a class of their own compared to regular patients. Indeed, if you are accepting a transfer case, you’ll need to be aware that you could potentially be taking on liabilities from the previous ortho provider; as such, checking each transfer case very carefully is essential to reduce the risk of getting caught out.
It’s worth noting here that Phase 1 interceptive and functional appliance transfer patients are very different from both Invisalign/clear aligner and braces transfers. As such, just because you’ve done Invisalign transfers successfully doesn’t necessarily mean this will work with Phase 1 interceptions.
Before taking on these transfer cases, always make sure you’ve manually checked the current work and get a copy of the initial treatment plan and records, as well as a summary of the treatment plan and all current progress and treatment notes. Don’t forget that you will also need to obtain a transfer form. If you can’t get the paperwork and notes from the previous provider, or if you are unsatisfied with what you’re provided with, starting a brand new case may be safer.
Remember: you are not obligated to take on a transfer case, nor did you have to use the appliances that were used before. As such, if you are not satisfied the work was done well to begin with, don’t hesitate to suggest starting again to the patient. Naturally, the patient may not be happy with this if they have already paid out to have the case started elsewhere; however, if the current treatment does not align with your treatment philosophy and approach perfectly, why take the case as it is?