IsPhase1OrthodonticsWorthIt?AGuideforParents

Phase 1 orthodontics is worth it when a child has a specific problem that is easier to correct during growth, such as a crossbite, an underbite, a narrow upper jaw, or front teeth at high risk of injury. For most children, it is not needed, and waiting until the permanent teeth come in gives the same result with one round of treatment.

The answer depends on the problem. This guide explains what Phase 1 is, when it pays off, when it does not, and what the research shows.

What Phase 1 Is

Phase 1, also called early interceptive treatment, is orthodontic care started while a child still has some baby teeth, usually between about ages 7 and 10. At Bloom it typically runs 6 to 18 months. A rest period follows while the remaining permanent teeth come in.

Depending on the problem, Phase 1 may use a palatal expander, partial braces, a functional appliance, or a removable retainer-style device.

Phase 2 is comprehensive treatment in the teen years with braces or aligners. Most children who complete Phase 1 still need Phase 2, but it is often shorter and simpler.

When Phase 1 Is Usually Worth It

Problem	Why timing matters
Crossbite	Early correction helps the jaw grow evenly
Underbite	Best addressed during active facial growth
Narrow upper jaw	An expander works only before the palate's growth plate fuses, typically by the mid-teens
Severe crowding	Early space management can reduce the need for extractions later
Front teeth that stick out a lot	Repositioning them early can lower the risk of injury
Habits such as prolonged thumb sucking	Early intervention can redirect how the arch develops

The AAO notes that in younger patients, palatal expansion may reduce the need for extractions or prevent impacted teeth, and that problems not corrected during growth may need surgery later in life.

When Waiting Is Usually Better

If none of the problems above are present, the right recommendation is usually to monitor. Mild crowding and minor spacing often wait well until the permanent teeth are in, typically between ages 11 and 14. Starting early in those cases can mean two rounds of treatment for the result one round would give.

What the Research Says

Research helps set expectations for one common case, prominent upper front teeth.

A 2018 Cochrane review looked at treatment for prominent upper front teeth (Class II malocclusion) in children. It found that early treatment followed by treatment in adolescence reduced the chance of injury to the front teeth compared with a single course of treatment in adolescence. It found no other important advantage of starting early for this problem.

In plain terms, for teeth that stick out, Phase 1 mainly protects the front teeth from injury. That benefit matters most for children who are active or who have very prominent teeth. For some families it is worth it, and for others waiting makes more sense. We talk through which applies to your child.

Questions That Decide It

1. What specific problem would Phase 1 correct? A clear answer is a good sign.
2. What happens if we wait? If the answer is "about the same result later," waiting is often reasonable.
3. Is the problem growth-dependent? Crossbites, underbites, and narrow jaws usually are.
4. Will my child need Phase 2 anyway? Usually yes. Ask how Phase 1 would change it.
5. How long will Phase 1 take, and what does it involve day to day?

Phase 1 at Bloom

Dr. Judy Nguyen and Dr. Thao Nguyen Vu, both board-certified orthodontists, see patients in Long Beach and Garden Grove. Each Phase 1 evaluation includes digital records, X-rays, and an assessment of jaw development and growth stage. We recommend Phase 1 only when a specific problem calls for it. If the better choice is to wait, we will tell you.

At Bloom, Phase 1 is typically $2,500 to $3,500, and your exact fee is set after an exam. Check your plan for Phase 1 coverage, since many insurance plans include it. Flexible monthly financing is another option, explained on our insurance and financing page. If an expander is part of the plan, our palate expander guide explains what to expect.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Phase 1 orthodontics worth it?

It is worth it when a child has a growth-dependent problem such as a crossbite, an underbite, a narrow upper jaw, or front teeth at high risk of injury. Most children do not need it.

Does my child need Phase 1 treatment?

Most children do not. We check for the specific problems that call for early treatment at the first visit and give you a straight answer.

Will my child still need braces after Phase 1?

Probably yes. Phase 1 addresses specific developmental problems and does not complete alignment. Phase 2 in the teen years is typically simpler afterward.

How long does Phase 1 take?

At Bloom, Phase 1 typically runs 6 to 18 months, followed by a rest period while the remaining permanent teeth come in.

What age is Phase 1 done?

Usually between about ages 7 and 10, while a child still has some baby teeth. The AAO recommends an orthodontic checkup by age 7 so the timing can be planned.

Is Phase 1 painful?

New appliances usually cause mild pressure or soreness that resolves within a few days. Most kids adapt quickly.

How much does Phase 1 cost at Bloom?

Phase 1 at Bloom is typically $2,500 to $3,500. Your exact fee is set after an exam.

Does insurance cover Phase 1?

Many insurance plans include Phase 1 orthodontic benefits. Coverage depends on your plan, and we can help you check your benefits.

Sources

• American Association of Orthodontists, The Milestone Visit: Why Age 7 is The Best Age For Orthodontic Treatment
• American Association of Orthodontists, What are Palatal Expanders and What Do They Correct?
• Batista KB, Thiruvenkatachari B, Harrison JE, O'Brien KD. Orthodontic treatment for prominent upper front teeth (Class II malocclusion) in children and adolescents. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2018.
• Bloom early treatment details: Early interceptive treatment, Teen orthodontics, What age for a first orthodontist visit

---

Not sure if your child needs early treatment? Book a free consultation and we will check for the problems Phase 1 treats.