Early Treatment for Children
Guide your child’s smile development and prevent bigger problems later.
What Is Early Orthodontic Treatment?
Early orthodontic treatment, also called Phase 1 or interceptive treatment, addresses developing orthodontic issues in children while their jaws are still growing. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7, not necessarily to start treatment, but to identify any issues that would benefit from early intervention.
At age 7, children have a mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth, giving orthodontists a clear picture of how the bite is developing. In many cases, we simply monitor growth and wait for the right time to begin treatment. But in some situations, early intervention can make a significant difference.
Early treatment can guide jaw growth, correct harmful oral habits like thumb sucking, create space for crowded permanent teeth, and reduce the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth. By addressing these issues early, we can often simplify or shorten later treatment, and sometimes avoid more invasive procedures like tooth extraction or jaw surgery.
At LakeStone Orthodontics, Dr. Patel and Dr. Bochacki take a conservative approach to early treatment. We only recommend intervention when it will provide clear benefits for your child’s long-term oral health and smile. Many children don’t need early treatment and do just fine waiting until their permanent teeth have erupted.
See What Our Patients Are Saying
Dr. Patel is transparent, knowledgeable, and genuinely invested in the well-being of his patients. He takes the time to explain every step of the process, answers questions thoroughly, and makes both parents and kids feel comfortable and informed. It’s clear he cares deeply about creating a positive experience and delivering excellent results.
Although he had a lot of “undoing” to do when he took over the practice, he has handled it with professionalism, integrity, and a clear commitment to improvement. We are extremely happy with the care our children are receiving now and highly recommend Dr. Patel and his team!!
Benefits of Early Treatment
Guide Jaw Growth
Direct jaw development while bones are still growing for better facial balance and bite.
Avoid Extractions
Create space for crowded teeth, potentially eliminating the need to remove permanent teeth later.
Correct Bad Habits
Address thumb sucking, tongue thrust, and mouth breathing before they cause lasting damage.
Simplify Future Treatment
Early intervention often makes Phase 2 treatment shorter and less complex.
Protect from Injury
Protruding front teeth are more vulnerable to trauma. Early correction reduces this risk.
Boost Confidence
Help your child feel good about their smile during important developmental years.
Signs Your Child May Need Early Treatment
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Thumb sucking or pacifier use beyond age 4
- Crowded, misplaced, or blocked teeth
- Difficulty chewing or biting food properly
- Mouth breathing or snoring during sleep
- Protruding teeth or an uneven bite
Your Child's Smile Journey
First Evaluation
We'll assess your child's teeth, jaw growth, and bite development around age 7.
Recommendation
We'll explain if early treatment helps now or if monitoring and waiting is the better path.
Phase 1 Treatment
If needed, we use expanders, partial braces, or habit appliances to guide healthy development.
Monitor & Transition
We'll track progress and determine the right time for Phase 2 or celebrate a job well done.
Real Results From Real Patients
Invisalign®
Lingual Braces
Metal Braces
Early Treatment FAQs
Does my child definitely need treatment at age 7?
Not necessarily. Most children who visit us at age 7 don't need immediate treatment. The evaluation allows us to monitor development and plan for the optimal time to begin treatment if needed.
Will my child need braces again later?
Many children who have Phase 1 treatment will need Phase 2 treatment (full braces or aligners) once their permanent teeth come in. However, Phase 2 is often shorter and simpler because of the early intervention.
What types of appliances are used for early treatment?
Depending on the issue, we may use palatal expanders, space maintainers, partial braces, or habit-breaking appliances. We'll explain exactly what your child needs during the consultation.
Is early treatment more expensive overall?
When you factor in the potential to avoid extractions, reduce Phase 2 treatment time, or prevent jaw surgery, early treatment often provides excellent value. We'll discuss costs and financing options with you
Is Your Child Ready for an Evaluation?
Find out if early treatment could benefit your child’s smile and development.