Early Orthodontic Treatment in Leland, NC

Early orthodontic treatment, also called Phase 1 or interceptive treatment, corrects certain bite and jaw problems in children while they are still growing, usually between about ages 7 and 10. Not every child needs it. Most children simply need an evaluation and then periodic check-ups until the right time for braces. At Cape Fear Orthodontics in Belville, serving Leland and Brunswick County, our board-certified orthodontists evaluate your child, tell you honestly whether early treatment would help, and explain what happens if you wait. Schedule a free consultation or call (910) 260-5564.

What Is Phase 1 Orthodontic Treatment?

Phase 1 is a short, targeted round of treatment done while a child still has a mix of baby and permanent teeth. Its goal is not a perfect smile. It is to guide jaw growth, make room for permanent teeth or correct a bite problem that would be harder to fix later. It typically lasts around 6 to 18 months, depending on the problem.

After Phase 1, there is usually a resting period while the rest of the permanent teeth come in. Many children then have a second phase, often braces or aligners, to align the teeth once they are all in place. Because the foundation was addressed early, that second phase is often simpler.

When Should My Child See an Orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have an orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At that age most kids have a mix of baby and adult teeth, so an orthodontist can see how the bite is developing and spot jaw growth problems, crowding and harmful habits early.

An evaluation at 7 does not mean braces at 7. In many cases our recommendation is simply to monitor growth every 6 to 12 months and step in only if it becomes necessary.

Signs Your Child May Benefit From an Early Evaluation

• Losing baby teeth much earlier or later than other kids their age
• Upper teeth that sit behind the lower teeth when biting (crossbite or underbite)
• Front teeth that stick out far past the lower teeth
• Front teeth that do not meet when the back teeth are closed (open bite)
• Severe crowding or large gaps as permanent teeth arrive
• A jaw that shifts to one side, clicks or looks uneven
• Thumb or finger sucking past about age 5, tongue thrusting or constant mouth breathing
• Difficulty chewing or biting

These signs do not always mean treatment is needed right away, but they do mean an orthodontist should take a look.

Problems Early Treatment Can Correct

Your child's plan is based on their exam and X-rays. The orthodontist will explain which appliance, if any, is recommended and how long it is expected to be worn.

What Happens at Your Child's First Visit

The first visit is an evaluation, not a commitment. It is a relaxed, pressure-free way to get a specialist's opinion.

1. Exam. The orthodontist checks your child's bite, jaw symmetry and how the teeth are coming in.
2. Imaging. X-rays or scans show what is happening below the gums, including teeth that have not come in yet.
3. Conversation with you. You hear what is normal, what is not, and whether treatment is needed now, later or not at all.
4. A plan. That might be a Phase 1 recommendation, or simply a follow-up visit to keep an eye on growth.

Early visits also help kids get comfortable in an orthodontic office, which makes any future treatment easier.

Benefits of Phase 1 Treatment

• Uses natural growth to correct jaw problems while they are easier to fix
• Can create room for permanent teeth and reduce crowding
• Can lower the risk of damage to protruding front teeth
• Can shorten or simplify later treatment in the teen years
• May reduce the chance that more involved treatment is needed later
• Can help a child feel more confident about their smile

Does Every Child Need Early Treatment?

No, and we will tell you so. Many children are best served by waiting until more permanent teeth come in and doing one phase of treatment later. Early treatment is worth it when a problem is easier to correct during growth, or when waiting would make it worse. When that is not the case, we recommend monitoring instead of treatment. An honest answer is part of every evaluation.

Phase 1 vs. Braces for Kids

Phase 1 focuses on jaws, space and bite during growth. Full braces focus on aligning every permanent tooth. Some children need only one, some need both, and some need neither. If your child is older and most permanent teeth are already in, our braces for kids page explains what comprehensive treatment involves. Children who want a less noticeable option later on can look at clear braces.

Cost, Insurance and Medicaid

A Phase 1 fee depends on the problem and the appliance, and is often lower than full braces. Many dental plans that include orthodontic benefits cover early treatment, though some plans apply the lifetime maximum across both phases. Our team checks your benefits and sets up a monthly payment plan.

Cape Fear Orthodontics accepts Medicaid. North Carolina Medicaid covers orthodontic treatment for children when the problem qualifies as medically necessary and the case is approved. See our Medicaid orthodontist page for details, and bring your child's Medicaid card to the first visit.

Meet Your Child's Orthodontists

Dr. Justin Groody, DDS, MSD, is a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics, and Dr. Melissa Papio, DMD, MS, is a board-certified orthodontist. Both focus on catching problems at the right moment and explaining the options in plain language to parents and kids. Meet Dr. Groody and Dr. Papio.

Early Orthodontic Treatment FAQs

What is the best age for a first orthodontic visit?

By age 7, following the American Association of Orthodontists recommendation. If you notice a problem sooner, you can come in earlier.

Will my child need braces again after Phase 1?

Often, yes. Many children have a second phase once their permanent teeth are in, but it is usually shorter and simpler because the jaw and bite were addressed first.

Does a palate expander hurt?

Most kids feel pressure for a few days after it is placed or adjusted. Discomfort is usually mild and short-lived.

What if the orthodontist says to wait?

That is a common and good outcome. We will schedule periodic check-ups, usually every 6 to 12 months, to watch growth and step in only if needed.

Is the first visit free?

Yes. The consultation and exam are free, with no obligation to start treatment.

Schedule Your Child's Orthodontic Evaluation

If your child is 7 or older, or you have noticed any of the signs above, an evaluation will give you clear answers. Schedule a free consultation at 40 Waterford Business Center Way in Belville, a short drive from Leland.

Wondering about timing? Read when to schedule your child’s first orthodontic visit.