Phase 1 orthodontics guides a child’s developing jaw and smile before all permanent teeth arrive. Also called early interceptive treatment, it usually starts between ages 6 and 10, while baby teeth are still present and adult teeth are beginning to erupt. Starting early lets us catch problems while the jaw is still growing, which can sometimes prevent more involved treatment later.
At Ricci Orthodontic Studio in Doral, FL, Dr. Alyssa Ricci designs each early plan around the child’s natural growth, current problems, and future needs.
Every child is seen in a private treatment room to keep visits calm and personal.
Families in Doral, Miami Springs, Hialeah, and surrounding Miami-Dade areas find the scheduling convenient for school and work routines. Our bilingual staff explains everything in English or en español so parents stay fully informed.
Early signs such as crowding, protruding front teeth, crossbites, or jaw misalignment are reasons to consider Phase 1. Treating them while the jaw is still growing can steer development in the right direction, open space for permanent teeth, and sometimes avoid extractions or surgery down the road. It also breaks habits like thumb sucking or tongue thrusting that distort jaw growth.
Dr. Ricci evaluates growth with 3D CBCT scans and the iTero Element 5D scanner, then plans accordingly.
Gentle guidance during the growth years builds a balanced facial structure and bite. Underbites and crossbites are easier to correct now than after growth ends.
Creating space early reduces crowding and can prevent adult teeth from becoming impacted. That means fewer extractions or more complex procedures later.
Fixing visible dental problems before adolescence helps children feel more comfortable socially and at school.
The first visit is complimentary. The team takes panoramic and cephalometric radiographs, photos, and a digital scan. Dr. Ricci then performs a full clinical exam and creates an individualized treatment plan. Parents and children sit in a private room where we explain findings and answer questions so you can decide with confidence.
If Phase 1 is indicated, Dr. Ricci builds a plan around the child’s growth pattern, oral development, and orthodontic needs. Options may include expanders, partial braces, or Invisalign First, an aligner system made specifically for growing smiles. Invisalign First is discreet and comfortable, which many kids prefer.
Regular visits let Dr. Ricci track progress and adjust as needed. When Phase 1 ends, the child receives retainers and enters a monitoring phase until the timing is right for Phase 2. We treat patients of all ages, so we stay with the family from childhood through adulthood.
Not every child needs Phase 1 right away. If Dr. Ricci decides treatment can wait, she continues to monitor facial and jaw development at no charge. Complimentary check-ups every six months track growth so intervention happens at the optimal moment if it becomes necessary.
Usually 6 to 9, once the first adult teeth begin to appear. Early management of dental and jaw development is easiest while the bones are still growing. Starting at the right window can prevent bigger problems later.
It tackles crowding, crossbites, and jaw misalignment while the child is growing. Guiding jaw growth and making room for permanent teeth lowers the chance of extractions or surgery later and builds a healthier foundation.
Crowding, protruding teeth, crossbites, jaw misalignment, and habits such as thumb sucking or tongue thrusting. The goal is to align the jaw and incoming teeth before the remaining adult teeth erupt.
Roughly 6 to 15 months, depending on the child and the complexity. Regular visits tell us when Phase 1 is finished and when Phase 2 should begin.
The child gets retainers to hold the gains, then enters periodic monitoring. Phase 2 is started only when the jaw and facial structure are ready. Retainers keep teeth and jaw stable during continued growth.
It shapes jaw and tooth growth during a critical window. Proper facial growth, clearer speech, easier chewing, and stronger oral health are all downstream benefits.
Dr. Ricci will watch growth through complimentary six-month check-ups. If needs change, she will recommend the right next step at the right time.
