Parents often assume braces are something that happen after all of a child’s baby teeth have fallen out. But in some cases, orthodontic treatment can begin earlier. Phase 1 orthodontics, also called early orthodontic treatment, can help guide the development of a child’s smile while they still have a mix of baby and permanent teeth.
So, can a child actually get braces on their baby teeth? In certain situations, yes. The goal isn’t necessarily to straighten every baby tooth. Instead, early treatment focuses on creating healthier conditions for the permanent teeth and guiding the growth of the smile.
What Is Phase 1 Orthodontics?
Phase 1 orthodontics is orthodontic treatment that takes place while a child is still growing and developing, often before all of their permanent teeth have erupted. It may involve braces, expanders, or other orthodontic appliances, depending on the child’s specific needs.
Not every child needs Phase 1 treatment. An orthodontist may recommend it when there are concerns that could become more complicated if treatment is delayed. Crowding, crossbites, significant spacing, or certain jaw-development concerns may be addressed during this stage.
The timing is individualized, which is why an orthodontic evaluation can be helpful even if your child still has plenty of baby teeth.
How Does Phase 1 Treatment Work?
The first step is an orthodontic evaluation. The orthodontist will look at your child’s teeth, bite, jaw development, and the position of incoming permanent teeth. X-rays or other diagnostic records may also be used to get a better understanding of what is happening beneath the surface.
If early treatment is appropriate, the orthodontist will create a plan based on your child’s development. Braces may be placed on some teeth, while an appliance such as a palatal expander may be used to address specific concerns.
Phase 1 treatment is generally followed by a period of observation as the child continues to grow and their permanent teeth erupt. Some children may eventually need a second phase of orthodontic treatment once their permanent teeth are in place.
What Can Early Orthodontics Help With?
One of the biggest benefits of Phase 1 orthodontics is that it can address certain orthodontic concerns while a child’s smile and jaw are still developing. Depending on the situation, early treatment may help create space for permanent teeth, correct problematic bites, improve tooth positioning, or guide the development of the jaws.
It may also make future orthodontic treatment more straightforward in some cases. However, every child develops differently, and early treatment isn’t automatically better for everyone.
If you notice crowding, an unusual bite, teeth that seem to be erupting in an unexpected position, or other concerns about your child’s developing smile, an orthodontic evaluation can provide helpful answers.
Early evaluation can give your child’s smile room to grow.
About the Practice
Serenity Orthodontics provides orthodontic care for children, teens, and adults, including Phase 1 orthodontic treatment for children who may benefit from early intervention. The orthodontic team takes a personalized approach to evaluating developing smiles and creating treatment plans suited to each patient’s needs.
Call us at (678) 879-3006 or schedule your appointment online
