Phase1vsPhase2Orthodontics:WhatEachPhaseDoes

Phase 1 is early, interceptive treatment that starts while a child still has a mix of baby and permanent teeth, and Phase 2 is comprehensive treatment that starts once most or all permanent teeth are in. Phase 1 guides jaw growth and makes room for incoming teeth. Phase 2 moves the teeth into their final positions with braces or clear aligners.

The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) stresses that two-phase treatment is not needed for every child. Many problems can be treated in a single phase later on.

The Two Phases Side by Side

	Phase 1	Phase 2
When it starts	Mixed baby and permanent teeth	Most or all permanent teeth in
Main goal	Guide jaw growth, create space, correct problems best treated during growth	Place teeth in final positions and refine the bite
Common tools	Palate expanders, partial braces, growth-guidance appliances	Braces or clear aligners
Typical length at Bloom	6 to 18 months	Set after an exam, often 12 to 24 months for teens
Fee at Bloom	$2,500 to $3,500	Teen orthodontics is $3,500 to $5,500

What Happens Between the Phases

After Phase 1, most children have a rest period before Phase 2. The AAO explains that this break lets the jaw keep growing and the remaining permanent teeth come in, while the orthodontist checks how the Phase 1 changes are holding. Your child may still have periodic check-ins during this time.

Who Needs Both Phases

The AAO says two-phase treatment is usually considered when an orthodontist sees a likely severe bite or jaw problem, or a risk of damage to permanent teeth, and Phase 1 has a high chance of reducing it. Examples include jaw growth differences, crossbites, severe crowding, and eruption problems. Our early treatment page lists the problems we look for.

For many children, waiting and doing one phase of comprehensive treatment is the right call. We tell you which path fits your child.

Questions to Ask About a Two-Phase Plan

The AAO suggests that parents ask:

1. How does Phase 1 support Phase 2?
2. What changes are you targeting now, and what will you address later?
3. What does success look like at the end of Phase 1?

Good answers tie the timing back to growth, bite health, and long-term stability. More on the first phase is in our guide Phase 1 orthodontics: is it worth it?

Two-Phase Treatment at Bloom

Dr. Thao Nguyen Vu and Dr. Judy Nguyen are board-certified orthodontists who evaluate children at our Long Beach and Garden Grove offices. The AAO recommends a first checkup no later than age 7, and you do not need a dentist referral to book with us. The free first visit includes X-rays, records, and a treatment simulation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Phase 1 and Phase 2 orthodontics?

Phase 1 is early treatment during growth to guide the jaw and make room for teeth. Phase 2 is comprehensive treatment with braces or aligners once permanent teeth are in.

Does every child who has Phase 1 need Phase 2?

Most do, but Phase 2 is often shorter and simpler after a successful Phase 1. Your orthodontist reassesses during the rest period.

How much do Phase 1 and Phase 2 cost at Bloom?

Phase 1 is $2,500 to $3,500. Phase 2 is planned as teen treatment, which is $3,500 to $5,500. Exact fees are set after an exam.

Can we skip Phase 1 and wait?

Often, yes. The AAO says many problems are treated in a single phase. Phase 1 is reserved for problems best addressed during growth.

Do I need a referral for my child's first visit?

No. You can book directly with Bloom.

Sources

• American Association of Orthodontists, 6 Facts About Two-Phase Treatment
• American Association of Orthodontists, Why the AAO Recommends an Age 7 Checkup
• Bloom fees (Dr. Thao Vu, 2026-10-12 and 2026-10-19) and details: Early interceptive treatment, Teen orthodontics

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Wondering whether your child needs one phase or two? Book a free consultation in Long Beach or Garden Grove.