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This is the time when permanent molars and front teeth start to erupt.
Allows for early detection of issues like crowding, crossbite, jaw shifts, and habits.
Timely corrections can be made to ensure healthy dental development.
Early Beginnings, Brighter Futures
Phase One, also known as interceptive orthodontic treatment, focuses on guiding your child’s dental and jaw development early. By addressing issues proactively, this phase helps shorten and simplify future treatments.
We use customized oral appliances such as partial braces and palatal expanders to address your child’s specific needs, ensuring a smoother path to aligned, healthy teeth.
Typically lasts 6–12 months.
Not all kids require Phase One Treatment, but in certain cases, it proves to be immensely beneficial. For example, early orthodontic treatment may be recommended for children with a narrow upper jaw, addressing this issue before it leads to more complex concerns.
A Time for Growth
During the Resting Period following Phase One, we observe as your child's remaining permanent teeth emerge, often better positioned, thanks to early treatment. Retainers may be used to preserve these Phase One improvements, ensuring a seamless transition to future phases.
The Last Mile to a Happy Smile
This phase is about refining and perfecting your child’s smile. This crucial stage employs full braces on both the upper and lower teeth, fine-tuning the alignment to achieve not just aesthetic perfection but also a functional bite.
Typically recommended for children aged 11-15, this phase lasts about 12-20 months.
Early care supports the development of the jaw and teeth, setting a strong foundation for permanent teeth.
Lowers the risk of tooth and jaw injury, protecting your child's oral health.
Decreases the risk of speech problems for your child, aiding in clearer communication.
Reduces the likelihood of your child needing extensive and costly orthodontic treatments later.
Even after the first phase, noticeable improvements can significantly elevate a child’s self-esteem and confidence.
Lessens chances of cavities, teeth grinding, and gum diseases, promoting overall dental wellness for your child.
Maximizes your child’s potential for a healthy, functional, and aesthetically pleasing smile that lasts a lifetime.
Not all children require early orthodontic treatment; the necessity varies based on individual dental and skeletal development. Early intervention allows us to correct some problems more efficiently and effectively than waiting until all of a child’s permanent teeth have erupted or their skeletal growth is complete. However, some conditions are best treated after your child has experienced more growth.
Early treatment doesn’t always eliminate the need for braces later, but it can shorten and simplify future treatment. Our orthodontist will develop a customized plan based on your child’s unique needs.
The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentists recommends an orthodontic evaluation at age 7 to spot potential issues early. Treatment typically starts between ages 9 to 14, tailored to each child’s unique dental development and needs. This approach ensures timely and effective care, leveraging periods of growth for optimal results.
Yes, children can receive Invisalign® treatment. Invisalign® offers specially designed clear aligners for kids, known as Invisalign® First, suitable for children as young as 7 years old. These are customized to accommodate growing jaws and evolving dental needs.
Phase One, or interceptive treatment, starts early to guide jaw and teeth development, often using partial braces or other appliances. Phase Two typically begins after all permanent teeth have emerged, focusing on perfecting alignment with full braces or clear aligners.
Yes, early treatment can address developing issues like jaw misalignment or overcrowded teeth at a stage when interventions can be more effective and less invasive, potentially preventing more serious problems later.
Signs your child might benefit from early treatment include loss of baby teeth much earlier or later than average, difficulty chewing or biting, mouth breathing, thumb sucking beyond age five, crowded or misplaced teeth, or noticeable jaw misalignment.
It’s never too late to get an orthodontic evaluation. While the recommended age for a first visit is 7, older children and teenagers can still benefit greatly from orthodontic treatment. An initial consultation will help us determine the best course of action.
The duration for wearing retainers varies. Initially, your child might need to wear them full time for several months, transitioning to nighttime wear thereafter. We’ll provide a personalized plan to ensure their new smile lasts a lifetime.
Yes, depending on the case, alternatives like Invisalign® might be suitable for your child. During the consultation, we’ll discuss all available options and recommend the best solution for your child’s needs.
During your child’s first visit, we’ll conduct a thorough examination, discuss any concerns, and outline potential treatment plans. This visit is crucial for understanding your child’s orthodontic needs and how we can achieve the best results.
