What Is Phase 1 Orthodontics?
Phase 1 orthodontic treatment — also called early interceptive treatment — is limited orthodontic work done while a child still has a mix of baby and permanent teeth, typically between ages 7 and 10.
The goal is not to complete full orthodontic treatment at this stage. It is to address specific problems that are easier (and cheaper) to fix while the jaw is still growing — and that, if left untreated, would require more complex intervention later.
What Problems Does Phase 1 Address?
**Crossbites** — When upper teeth sit inside lower teeth, the jaw can develop asymmetrically if not corrected early. A palatal expander during Phase 1 can correct a crossbite in a matter of months.
**Severe crowding** — If X-rays show there is not enough room for permanent teeth to erupt, creating space early can guide teeth into better positions and sometimes eliminate the need for tooth extractions later.
**Underbites** — An underbite (lower jaw protruding past the upper) is significantly easier to correct while the jaw is actively growing. Waiting until adulthood can mean surgical intervention.
**Protruding upper front teeth** — Teeth that stick out significantly are at much higher risk of injury during childhood. Early treatment protects them.
Does Phase 1 Mean Two Rounds of Treatment?
Often, yes — but not always. After Phase 1, there is a resting period while remaining permanent teeth come in. Then Phase 2 (comprehensive orthodontic treatment with braces or Invisalign) typically begins in the early teen years.
However, Phase 1 usually makes Phase 2 shorter, simpler, and less expensive. In some cases — particularly with crossbites — addressing the problem early means Phase 2 is significantly easier than it would have been otherwise.
Is Phase 1 Always Necessary?
No. Most children who are screened at age 7 do not need Phase 1 treatment. They simply need to be monitored. Dr. Kamdar will only recommend Phase 1 if there is a genuine clinical benefit — not because it generates additional revenue.
Free Screening for Children Ages 7 and Up
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children have an orthodontic screening by age 7. At Platinum Orthodontics, these screenings are free and carry no obligation. We will tell you honestly whether your child needs early treatment, monitoring, or nothing at all.