November 2, 2026
Many parents are surprised when we mention orthodontics during a child's routine visit, especially when their child still has a mouth full of baby teeth. Braces often feel like something reserved for teenagers. However, some bite and jaw issues are much easier to correct while a child is still growing, and that is where Phase 1 orthodontic treatment comes in.
As pediatric dentists, we watch your child's teeth and jaws develop from the very first tooth onward. That long view helps us spot early warning signs and recommend care at the moment it will make the biggest difference. Below, we explain what Phase 1 treatment involves, which signs to look for, and how to know whether your child may benefit.
What Is Phase 1 Orthodontic Treatment?
Phase 1 orthodontic treatment, also called interceptive or early orthodontic treatment, is care that begins while a child still has a mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth. It usually takes place between the ages of 6 and 10.
Rather than focusing only on straightening teeth, Phase 1 treatment guides the growth of the jaws and creates a healthier environment for permanent teeth to come in. Because a child's jawbones are still developing, we can influence their growth in ways that are not possible once growth slows in the teen years.
Phase 1 is often followed by a resting period while the remaining permanent teeth erupt. Some children later need a second phase of treatment, typically full braces or clear aligners, to fine tune the alignment of their permanent teeth. In many cases, a successful first phase makes that second phase shorter and simpler, and some children may not need it at all.
Why Timing Matters
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. By this age, the first permanent molars and front teeth have usually started to come in, which gives us a clear picture of how the bite is developing.
An evaluation at age 7 does not mean your child will start treatment right away. For most children, we simply monitor growth and development at regular checkups. For others, we may notice a problem that is best addressed sooner rather than later. Catching these issues early gives us more options and often allows for gentler, less invasive solutions.
Signs Your Child May Benefit From Phase 1 Treatment
Some orthodontic concerns are easy to see at home, while others are only noticeable during an exam. Here are some common signs that your child may benefit from early treatment:
- Crossbite, where some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth when your child bites down
- Underbite, where the lower front teeth sit in front of the upper front teeth
- Severe crowding or not enough room for permanent teeth to come in
- Front teeth that stick out noticeably and are at higher risk of injury
- Open bite, where the front teeth do not touch when the back teeth are together
- Losing baby teeth much earlier or later than expected
- A jaw that shifts to one side when your child opens or closes the mouth
- Thumb sucking, pacifier use, or tongue thrusting that continues past age 5
- Chronic mouth breathing or difficulty chewing
If you notice any of these signs, mention them at your child's next visit so we can take a closer look.
Common Phase 1 Treatments
Every child's treatment plan is different, and we tailor our recommendations to your child's specific needs. The Phase 1 approaches we offer include:
- Space maintainers: When a baby tooth is lost too early, a space maintainer holds the gap open so the permanent tooth has room to erupt in the right spot.
- Habit appliances: These devices help children break habits like thumb sucking or tongue thrusting that can affect the shape of the jaw and bite.
For more complex cases, we can refer you to an orthodontist who may recommend any of the following treatments:
- Palatal expanders: These appliances gently widen the upper jaw to correct a crossbite and create more room for permanent teeth.
- Partial braces: Braces on a few front teeth can correct alignment issues or bring in protruding teeth that are prone to injury.
- Removable appliances: Some children benefit from removable appliances that guide tooth movement and jaw growth.
Phase 1 treatment typically lasts about 6 to 18 months, depending on the issue being addressed.
Benefits of Early Orthodontic Care
Phase 1 treatment can offer advantages that last well beyond childhood. By addressing problems while the jaw is still growing, early care can:
- Guide jaw growth to improve the balance of the face and bite
- Create room for permanent teeth and reduce the need for extractions later
- Lower the risk of chipped or broken front teeth
- Improve chewing, speech, and breathing in some cases
- Shorten or simplify future treatment with braces or aligners
- Boost your child's confidence during important social years
Early treatment can also keep minor problems from developing into more complex ones. For example, an untreated crossbite can lead to uneven jaw growth and uneven wear on the teeth over time.
Does Every Child Need Phase 1 Treatment?
No, and we think it is important for parents to know that. Many children never need early orthodontic treatment, and some issues are better addressed once all of the permanent teeth have come in. Our goal is never to recommend treatment simply because a child has reached a certain age. Instead, we evaluate your child's unique growth pattern, bite, and dental health to determine whether early intervention will truly make a difference.
If we do recommend Phase 1 treatment, we will walk you through what we see, why we think treatment would help, and what to expect along the way. If we do not, we will continue to monitor your child's development at each checkup so we can act at the right time if anything changes.
Helping Rio Rancho Kids Build Healthy Smiles From the Start
Phase 1 orthodontic treatment is all about taking advantage of a window of opportunity. When we guide jaw growth and tooth development during childhood, we can often prevent more serious problems and set the stage for a healthier, more confident smile.
Because we see children regularly as they grow, we are in a unique position to spot early signs of bite and jaw issues. Whether your child needs treatment now, later, or not at all, our team is here to give you honest guidance and gentle, kid-friendly care every step of the way. If your child is approaching age 7 or you have noticed any of the signs above, we would love to take a look.
Frequently Asked Questions About Phase 1 Orthodontic Treatment
At what age should my child start Phase 1 orthodontic treatment?
Most children who need Phase 1 treatment begin between the ages of 6 and 10. We recommend an orthodontic evaluation by age 7 so we can determine whether early treatment would be helpful or whether waiting is the better option.
Is Phase 1 treatment painful for children?
Most children feel only mild pressure or soreness for a few days after an appliance is placed or adjusted. Soft foods and gentle care at home can help during that time, and kids usually adapt quickly.
Will my child still need braces after Phase 1?
Some children will need a second phase of treatment once their permanent teeth have come in, but it is often shorter and less complex. In some cases, Phase 1 treatment corrects the issue well enough that no further treatment is needed.
How long does Phase 1 orthodontic treatment take?
Phase 1 treatment usually lasts between 6 and 18 months. The exact length depends on your child's specific needs and the type of appliance used.
What happens if we wait instead of starting early treatment?
For some issues, waiting is perfectly fine. For others, such as crossbites or jaw growth problems, waiting can make treatment more complex later and may increase the chance of needing extractions or even jaw surgery as an adult. An evaluation helps us determine which approach is best for your child.
Rio Rancho Children's Dentistry provides gentle, personalized pediatric dental care for children in Rio Rancho, NM and nearby communities, including preventive care, interceptive orthodontics, sedation dentistry, and more. If you have questions about Phase 1 orthodontic treatment or would like to schedule an evaluation for your child, contact us today.