Early orthodontic care can make a lifelong difference in a child’s oral health, facial development, and confidence. At Westwood Orthodontics, we proudly offer Phase 1 Orthodontic Treatment in Los Angeles or children who are still growing and developing their smiles. This early phase of orthodontics is designed to guide jaw growth, correct developing bite issues, and create space for permanent teeth before more serious problems arise.
Phase 1 orthodontic treatment typically takes place between the ages of 6 and 10, when children still have a combination of baby teeth and permanent teeth. By addressing orthodontic concerns early, our team can often reduce the need for more complex treatment later and help your child achieve a healthier, more balanced smile.
Phase 1 Orthodontic Treatment—also known as early or interceptive orthodontics—focuses on identifying and correcting orthodontic issues while a child’s jaw is still growing. During this stage, orthodontists can influence jaw development and tooth positioning more effectively than later in adolescence.
At Westwood Orthodontics, Phase 1 treatment is not about achieving a perfect smile right away. Instead, it is about setting the foundation for proper alignment, balanced facial growth, and improved oral function. After Phase 1 is completed, many children will enter a resting or monitoring period until all permanent teeth erupt. Some children may then proceed to Phase 2 orthodontic treatment during their teenage years.
Children grow quickly, and so do their jaws and teeth. Addressing orthodontic issues during this critical growth period provides several important benefits:
Phase 1 orthodontics helps guide the growth of the upper and lower jaws, especially when one jaw is developing faster than the other. Correcting these issues early can improve bite function and facial balance.
Crowding is one of the most common orthodontic problems in children. Early treatment can create room for incoming permanent teeth, reducing the risk of impaction or severe misalignment.
Issues such as crossbites, overbites, and underbites are often easier to treat while the jaw is still growing. Early correction can improve chewing, speech, and overall oral health.
While Phase 1 treatment does not always eliminate the need for future orthodontics, it often shortens treatment time and simplifies Phase 2 care.
Phase 1 orthodontic treatment is typically recommended for children between 6 and 10 years old who show signs of developing orthodontic issues. These may include:
At Westwood Orthodontics, every child receives a comprehensive orthodontic evaluation to determine whether Phase 1 treatment is necessary or if simple monitoring is the best option.
Every child’s smile is unique, which is why we offer multiple treatment options under Phase 1 orthodontics. The most common options include braces and Invisalign First. Not every child will need the same approach, and some children may not require expansion at all.
Traditional braces remain a highly effective option for early orthodontic treatment. Phase 1 braces use gentle, controlled pressure to guide teeth into better positions and support proper jaw development.
Braces are fixed appliances, meaning they work continuously without relying on patient compliance. This makes them a dependable choice for younger children who may struggle with removable appliances.
Invisalign First is a clear aligner system designed specifically for children in the early stages of orthodontic development. These removable aligners gently move teeth while allowing room for incoming permanent teeth.
Invisalign First is often a great option for children who are responsible enough to wear their aligners as instructed. Our team at Westwood Orthodontics carefully evaluates whether Invisalign First is appropriate based on your child’s needs and lifestyle.
Not all Phase 1 orthodontic patients need expansion, but when the upper jaw is too narrow, expansion can play a critical role in creating space and improving bite alignment.
A Rapid Palatal Expander (RPE) is a fixed appliance used to gradually widen the upper jaw. This type of expander is often recommended when the palate is narrow or when a crossbite is present.
Benefits of RPE:
An Invisalign Palatal Expander (IPE) is a modern expansion option designed to work alongside Invisalign First treatment. This appliance offers a more aesthetic approach to expansion while still supporting jaw development.
Both expansion options are carefully monitored by our orthodontic team to ensure safe, effective results.
At Westwood Orthodontics, we focus on creating a positive and comfortable experience for both children and parents.
Your child’s journey begins with a thorough orthodontic evaluation, including digital imaging and growth analysis.
We develop a customized Phase 1 plan that may include braces, Invisalign First, expansion, or a combination of treatments.
Treatment typically lasts 9 to 12 months, depending on your child’s specific needs. Regular visits allow us to monitor progress and make adjustments.
After active treatment, your child may enter a monitoring period until all permanent teeth erupt.
Choosing the right orthodontic provider is essential for successful early treatment. Families trust Westwood Orthodontics because we offer:
Our goal is to guide your child’s smile development while making the experience positive, educational, and stress-free.
Most children should have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7 to determine whether Phase 1 treatment is needed.
No. Some children only need monitoring, while others benefit significantly from early intervention.
Active treatment usually lasts between 9 and 12 months, followed by a monitoring phase.
Some children will require Phase 2 treatment as teenagers, but Phase 1 often reduces treatment time and complexity later in life.
Give your child the advantage of early orthodontic care with Phase 1 Orthodontic Treatment in Los Angeles at Westwood Orthodontics. Our experienced team is committed to guiding healthy growth, preventing future complications, and helping young smiles thrive.
Contact Westwood Orthodontics today to schedule your child’s Phase 1 orthodontic consultation and take the first step toward a confident, healthy smile.
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