Treatment
Phase 1 early treatment
Phase 1 is early orthodontic treatment for children, usually between about ages 6 and 10, while baby teeth and permanent teeth are both present. It focuses on specific problems, such as a narrow upper jaw, a crossbite or severe crowding, that are easier to address while a child is still growing.
Not every child needs Phase 1, and many orthodontic problems can be treated in a single phase of treatment. An early check-up tells you whether your child is one of those who would benefit, or whether simply watching their growth is the right plan.
Awaiting clinical review by Dr. Camille J. Rose Kong, orthodontist.
Which children need Phase 1 treatment?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic check-up no later than age 7. Signs worth mentioning at that visit include:
- Losing baby teeth very early or very late.
- Crowded or overlapping front teeth as the adult teeth come in.
- Top and bottom teeth that do not meet, or a jaw that shifts to one side when biting.
- Front teeth that stick out and could be easily injured.
- Difficulty chewing or biting.
- Mouth breathing, or a thumb or finger habit that continues past the early years.
What happens during Phase 1?
An early visit is relaxed and designed with children in mind. Parents are part of every conversation.
A first check-up
At your child’s complimentary Smile Analysis we look at how the teeth, jaws and bite are developing, and we take the photographs and records needed to understand what we see.
Treat now, or watch
Your orthodontist explains whether early treatment would help now, or whether the better plan is to watch growth with periodic check-ups. Early evaluation does not mean early treatment.
A focused plan
If Phase 1 is recommended, the plan targets specific problems. It may use an expander to widen a narrow upper jaw, partial braces on a few teeth, or another appliance chosen for your child.
Regular visits
Visits during Phase 1 check progress and make small adjustments. We explain each step to your child in words they understand.
A resting period
When Phase 1 goals are met, there is usually a resting period while the remaining adult teeth come in, with periodic check-ups along the way.
How long does Phase 1 take?
Phase 1 treatment is usually shorter than full treatment. How long it lasts depends on what it needs to address.
Many children who have Phase 1 still need a second phase of treatment later, once all their adult teeth are in, to finish aligning the teeth and bite. Your orthodontist explains whether that is likely for your child. Every child is different, and your child’s plan may differ.
What is Phase 2?
Phase 1 corrects problems that are easier to address while a child is growing. Phase 2, if it is needed, usually starts once most adult teeth have come in, often in the early teen years, and uses braces or aligners to bring the teeth and bite into their final positions.
The aim of Phase 1 is not to replace later treatment. It is to deal with specific problems at the time they are simplest to address, which can make any later treatment more straightforward.
What should parents know?
- You are welcome in the room for every visit and every conversation.
- We explain what we see in plain words, show you your child’s records, and tell you honestly when no treatment is needed yet.
- Visits are planned around school where we can.
- Our team reviews your dental benefits with you before any treatment decision.
Questions we are often asked
Why age 7?
By about age 7, a child has a mix of baby and adult teeth, and the first adult molars have usually come in. That is enough for an orthodontist to see how the bite and jaws are developing and to spot problems early.
Does an early check-up mean my child will need braces now?
No. Most children seen at this age simply need their growth watched. If treatment would help, we explain why and what it would involve before you decide anything.
Will my child need a second phase?
Often, yes, though usually shorter or simpler than it would have been. Your orthodontist tells you whether a second phase is likely and what it may involve.
Does insurance cover Phase 1?
Some plans include orthodontic benefits for children, and coverage rules vary. Our team reviews your benefits with you so you know where you stand before any decision.
Sources
- Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment: Phase 1 & 2 Braces GuideAmerican Association of Orthodontists. Read September 30, 2026.
Your next step
The simplest way to find out what is right for you is a complimentary Smile Analysis. Reserve a time online, or call or text us and we will be glad to help.