Early Treatment Phase I
Expert Orthodontic Care by Dr. Vahid Babaeian, Board-Certified Orthodontist
When Should a Child First Visit the Pediatric Orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children receive their first orthodontic screening by age 7. At this age, Dr. Vahid Babaeian can evaluate how your child’s teeth and jaws are developing and determine whether early orthodontic treatment may be needed, and if so, the ideal timing.
Most dentists in our community are trained to spot early orthodontic concerns and may refer children to Brace Connection even before age 7 if they notice developing issues. Early evaluation ensures smarter planning, earlier detection, and better long-term results.
Why Are Children Evaluated at an Early Age?
Early diagnosis identifies developing problems before they become more complex. With Phase I treatment, Dr. Babaeian can:
Guide erupting teeth into healthier positions
Preserve space for incoming permanent teeth
Reduce the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth
Influence favorable jaw growth
Help correct harmful oral habits
Improve swallowing patterns or early speech concerns
Minimize the need for tooth extractions later
Reduce the likelihood of impacted teeth
In short, early orthodontic treatment can simplify and shorten future treatment, setting up a healthier foundation for Phase II care in the teen years.
Does Early Treatment Benefit Every Child?
Not all children require early treatment. Some orthodontic concerns are best addressed once all permanent teeth have erupted. Certain skeletal issues also respond better after more growth has occurred.
At Brace Connection, Dr. Babaeian creates an individualized plan for every child. If treatment isn’t needed yet, your child will be enrolled in our Orthodontic Supervisory Program to monitor growth and development until the ideal treatment time.
What Is the Orthodontic Supervisory Program?
The supervisory program is designed for children who aren’t ready for treatment but need periodic monitoring. This allows us to track how permanent teeth erupt and intervene when necessary.
Program benefits include:
Monitoring eruptive patterns
Identifying poor eruption paths early
Reducing future treatment time by removing baby teeth when needed
Coordinating care with your family dentist
Children are typically seen every 6–8 months, and there is no fee for this program. During these visits, we communicate findings and recommendations to your family dentist to ensure consistent, coordinated care.
What Other Benefits Does Orthodontic Treatment Provide?
Phase I orthodontic treatment offers advantages that go beyond aesthetics. Early treatment can:
Improve bite function
Reduce uneven wear on teeth
Make brushing and flossing more effective
Support long-term dental health
Help maintain natural teeth for a lifetime
If a Child Has Early Treatment, Will They Still Need Braces as a Teen?
Phase I treatment addresses major issues early, helping prevent more severe problems and simplifying future correction. However, because many permanent teeth have not yet erupted during early treatment, most children still benefit from a shorter, more efficient Phase II treatment (full braces) once all permanent teeth are in.
In some cases, depending on the child’s growth and early results, additional orthodontic treatment may not be necessary, but this varies by patient.
Do We Still Need to See Our Family Dentist During Orthodontic Treatment?
Yes. Children with braces or Phase I appliances must work a little harder to keep their teeth and gums clean. To ensure optimal dental health, patients should continue visiting their family dentist every six months for regular cleanings and check-ups throughout treatment.
Routine dental care supports orthodontic success and helps your child maintain a healthy, confident smile as treatment progresses.
Early Orthodontics FAQ
What signs might show that my child needs early orthodontic treatment?
Common signs include early or late loss of baby teeth, difficulty chewing, thumb-sucking beyond age 4, crowded or misplaced teeth, speech concerns, or jaws that shift or make noise. A Phase I evaluation can determine if early treatment would be beneficial.
How long does Phase I orthodontic treatment usually take?
Phase I treatment typically lasts 9 to 18 months, depending on the child’s needs. Afterward, most children enter a resting period until their permanent teeth erupt, followed by an evaluation for Phase II treatment if needed.
What types of appliances are used in Phase I treatment?
Depending on your child’s needs, appliances may include expanders, limited braces, space maintainers, or habit-correcting devices. Dr. Babaeian will recommend the best option to guide proper jaw and tooth development.
Does early orthodontic treatment make future braces easier?
Yes. Addressing major jaw or eruption problems early often makes Phase II quicker, simpler, and more predictable, sometimes reducing the time a child needs full braces later.
Can early orthodontic treatment improve a child’s confidence?
Absolutely. Children with protruding teeth, spacing issues, or visible alignment concerns often feel more confident once improvements begin. Correcting early issues can help children smile more comfortably and feel better during important developmental years.
Book Your Child’s Free Early Orthodontic Evaluation in Downey
Help your child achieve a healthy, confident smile with an Early Treatment (Phase I) evaluation. A quick screening can guide jaw growth, protect teeth, and promote long-term orthodontic success.
📞 Call (562) 861-7259 or Book Online to schedule your child’s complimentary Phase I consultation with Dr. Vahid Babaeian at Brace Connection in Downey, CA.
[Request an Appointment]