Phase I Orthodontics in Anaheim

Understanding the importance of early orthodontic evaluation can lead to preventative treatments that ensure a healthier smile for your child. Phase I orthodontics, often initiated for children around the ages of 6 to 9, focuses on addressing jaw growth, correcting bite issues, and making room for permanent teeth. Embracing this phase can lead to a future of confident smiles and reduced dental complications for your child.

What is phase I orthodontics?

Phase I Orthodontics, also known as early interceptive orthodontics, is a treatment specifically designed for young children. This phase targets developmental concerns that, if left untreated, could lead to more complex dental issues. The treatments might include expanders, partial braces, or specific appliances to guide the growth of the jaw and teeth.

Phase I (Early) Orthodontic Treatment typically begins between ages 7 – 10, while a child still has a mix of baby and adult teeth.

At this stage, an orthodontist can gently guide jaw growth, create space for erupting permanent teeth, and prevent complex problems later on.

At My Orange County Orthodontist in Anaheim Hills, Dr. Pejman Nasibi specializes in early interceptive orthodontics — including Phase I braces, expanders, and Invisalign® First aligners designed for growing smiles.

Signs your child might need phase I orthodontics

Early or late loss of baby teeth: Deviations from the typical timeline of tooth loss might indicate underlying orthodontic issues.

Difficulty in chewing or biting: Challenges during eating can signal misalignment or jaw issues.

Mouth breathing: Persistent mouth breathing can affect the way your child's facial bones develop.

Thumb sucking: Continued thumb sucking after a certain age can lead to bite problems and misaligned teeth.

Crowding, misplaced, or blocked-out teeth: Noticeable crowding or misplacement of teeth is a clear sign for orthodontic evaluation.

Family history of orthodontic problems: A family history might increase the likelihood of similar issues developing in your child.

Common treatments in phase II orthodontics

Traditional Braces: Metal or ceramic brackets attached to teeth, connected by wires, to gradually move teeth into place.

Clear Aligners: Custom-made, removable aligners that progressively adjust teeth positioning, offering a less noticeable treatment option.

Retainers: Used post-treatment to maintain teeth position.

Specialized Appliances: Depending on the case, devices like palatal expanders, headgear, or temporary anchorage devices (TADs) may be used to address specific alignment or bite issues.

Benefits of phase I orthodontics

Improved jaw symmetry: Corrects and guides the development of your child's jaw to accommodate emerging teeth and improve facial symmetry.

Better spacing for permanent teeth: Creates adequate space in the mouth to reduce crowding and misalignment of the permanent teeth.

Potential for shorter and less complex future treatment: Early corrections can simplify or eliminate the need for more extensive orthodontic treatments later.

Prevention of more invasive dental corrections: Addresses dental and jaw development issues early, reducing the need for more invasive treatments in the future.

10 Reasons Why Parents Should Consider Phase I Orthodontic Treatment

✅ 1. The Best Age for Phase I

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic evaluation by age 7.

At this age, Dr. Nasibi can identify developing bite or alignment issues and determine if early orthodontic care can reduce the need for extractions or complex treatment later.

🦷 2. Early Guidance = Easier Treatment Later

By starting Phase I early, parents often notice:

Shorter treatment time during the teen years (Phase II)
Fewer extractions or surgeries
Less emotional stress for the child

Early guidance helps shape the foundation for a healthy, balanced bite.

💨 3. Avoid Crowding and Misalignment

Early orthodontic care creates space for adult teeth, preventing:

Severe crowding
Crossbites
Rotations or impactions

😬 4. Correct Bite Problems While Growth Is Active

Jaw discrepancies like underbites, overbites, crossbites, and open bites can often be corrected more efficiently while the jaw bones are still growing — saving time and cost later.

😁 5. Reduce the Risk of Tooth Trauma

Children with protruding front teeth are more likely to injure them in sports or accidents.

Phase I treatment aligns teeth and protects their smile.

💤 6. Improve Airway and Breathing

Appliances such as expanders not only widen the smile but can improve nasal airflow and sleep quality, especially for kids who snore or mouth-breathe.

💬 7. Boost Self-Confidence

A healthy, balanced smile — even during the mixed-dentition stage — helps kids feel confident at school and in social settings.

Early treatment prevents teasing and promotes positive self-esteem.

💰 8. Save Time and Money Long-Term

Addressing jaw growth and spacing early often prevents:

Costly surgeries
Complex extractions
Long orthodontic treatments later

Investing in early care means simpler, shorter Phase II treatment when all permanent teeth come in.

⚠️ 9. What Happens If Parents Wait Too Long

Delaying orthodontic evaluation can lead to:

Limited growth potential for jaw correction
Severe crowding or impacted teeth
Longer, more complicated treatment later
Potential need for extractions or surgery

Early detection allows your orthodontist to treat problems while growth can still be guided.

🌟 10. Typical Cases That Benefit Most from Phase I

Crossbite or underbite
Protruding front teeth
Severe crowding or spacing
Early loss of baby teeth
Thumb-sucking or mouth-breathing habits
Asymmetrical facial growth
Ectopic or impacted permanent teeth

💡 In Summary — Set Your Child Up for a Lifetime of Smiles

Phase I orthodontic treatment:

Guides natural jaw and dental growth
Reduces complexity later
Protects your child’s smile, confidence, and health

🕐 Ideal Age: Around 7 – 10 years old

📞 Call or Text: (657) 613-1191

🌐 Visit: www.MyOrangeCountyOrtho.com

📍 Location: Serving Anaheim Hills, Yorba Linda, Fullerton & Orange County

Schedule a Complimentary Orthodontic Evaluation Today!

Learn if your child could benefit from early braces or Invisalign® with Dr. Pejman Nasibi, Orthodontic Specialist in Anaheim Hills.