Little Smiles, Big Changes
Getting a head start on a straight smile is the best way to set your child up for orthodontic success. Not every child needs Phase I orthodontic treatment, but every child needs an early check-up – and we can’t wait to introduce them to the world of orthodontics!
Phase I Orthodontic Treatment
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child visit an orthodontist by age 7. Not every child will need to start treatment at this age, but this first check-up helps Dr. Chamberlain get a better understanding of your child’s unique orthodontic needs so we can give them the best smile possible!
When needed, early treatment helps us correct many common orthodontic issues before they become more serious, which reduces the need for more intensive treatment at a later age.
By taking a proactive approach, we can ensure children receive the orthodontic care they need at the most advantageous time developmentally. With Phase I treatment, we can achieve results that may not be possible once a child’s face and jaws have finished growing.
Phase I Appliances
If Dr. Chamberlain recommends Phase I treatment for your child, they might need the following appliances.
Expanders
An orthodontic or palatal expander is a device that Dr. Chamberlain prescribes to widen the upper jaw. Expanders are used to correct posterior crossbites, create more space for the permanent teeth to erupt, and reduce airway constriction.
Traditional Metal Braces
After expansion, Dr. Chamberlain precisely adheres brackets to the upper and lower permanent front teeth and inserts archwires to guide the teeth into alignment.
Invisalign First
For parents worried about discomfort, Invisalign First is a braces alternative designed specifically for 6- to 10-year-olds. For this treatment plan, Dr. Chamberlain customizes a series of clear aligner trays to align the upper and lower permanent front teeth after expansion.
Phase I Retainers
Following expansion and alignment, Dr. Chamberlain typically provides patients with a removable upper Hawley retainer and a fixed lower lingual holding arch. These appliances maintain the progress of Phase I treatment while allowing the permanent canines and premolars to erupt before Phase II treatment begins.
Conditions That Benefit from
Phase I Treatment
Not all patients require early intervention,
but those that do often present with the
following conditions.
Crossbite
Underbite
Overbite
Open Bite
Crowding
Spacing
Deep Bite
Join the 7&Up Club!
To help your child become more familiar with the orthodontic treatment process, we invite them to join our 7&Up Club so we can help them build healthy oral hygiene habits, monitor their smiles as they grow, and celebrate their “smilestones” along the way!
As a Member of the 7&Up Club, Your Child Will:
- Get expert growth & development tracking
- Receive free check-ups every 6 months
- Start orthodontic treatment at the exact right time for their individual needs
- Gain access to exclusive perks like Dental Monitoring and The Family Pass
It’s never too early to get a head start on a straight smile and aligned bite, and our 7&Up Club makes that possible for every child! Schedule your child’s first orthodontic appointment to join the club!
We Can’t Wait to Make Your Child Smile!
Schedule your child for their first orthodontic check-up
to set them up for success today!