What Is Phase 1 Orthodontic Treatment?
Phase 1 orthodontics, also called early interceptive treatment, refers to the first stage in a two-phase process that guides jaw growth, improves alignment, and creates space for permanent teeth. Most children are candidates between ages 6 and 10 when baby and adult teeth coexist. However, interceptive strategies can also be adapted for teens or adults who are experiencing unresolved bite issues or preparing for restorative work.
The primary goal of Phase 1 treatment is to correct developing issues at an early stage—so future orthodontic care is simpler, shorter, and more successful.
When Is Phase 1 Orthodontics Recommended?
We recommend a consultation for Phase 1 care if your child or teen shows signs of:
- A misaligned bite (overbite, underbite, or crossbite)
- Jaw growth that seems uneven or delayed
- Early tooth loss or abnormal spacing
- Protruding front teeth
- Habits like thumb-sucking or tongue-thrusting
- Difficulty chewing or speaking
- Mouth breathing or jaw clicking
At your first visit, we’ll use advanced diagnostic tools—including the iTero® scanner, panoramic X-rays, and intraoral imaging—to accurately evaluate growth and tooth development.
Who Can Benefit from Phase 1 Treatment?
- Children (Ages 6–10): This is the ideal time to guide the jaw and prevent severe crowding or bite issues before all permanent teeth arrive.
- Teens: Older children who missed the early window can still benefit from modified interceptive treatment to prepare for full braces or aligners.
- Adults: Some adults require pre-treatment to correct spacing or bite issues before receiving dental implants, veneers, or cosmetic restorations.
At Tomblyn Family Orthodontics, we tailor every plan to the individual—no matter their age or stage.
What Does Phase 1 Treatment Involve?
Treatment typically lasts between 9 and 12 months. The plan may include:
- Expanders to widen a narrow palate
- Partial braces to address minor alignment issues
- Space maintainers to protect developing teeth
- Habit appliances to correct harmful oral behaviors
- Retainers or other transitional tools
This is usually followed by a resting phase for younger patients, allowing permanent teeth to erupt before Phase 2 begins. Teens and adults may move directly into the next phase based on their goals.
Comfort, Convenience, and a Family-Focused Approach
We’ve designed our Westlake office with your comfort in mind. Our patients—especially younger ones—enjoy thoughtful touches like:
- TVs in treatment areas
- Gaming consoles
- Cozy pillows and blankets
- Hot beverages for parents
- Goodie bags after appointments
Parents also appreciate our flexible financing options, which include:
- Interest-free monthly payment plans
- An in-house membership program
- Payment via cash, card, or check
The Benefits of Starting Early
Phase 1 orthodontics offers long-term advantages, including:
- Simplified treatment later: Addressing jaw growth and alignment early reduces the need for extractions or surgery.
- Improved function: A properly aligned bite improves speech, chewing, and breathing.
- Increased confidence: Early improvements in smile appearance help children and teens feel better socially.
- Reduced trauma risk: Correcting protruding teeth protects against sports or activity-related injury.
