Dr. Frial can help create a healthy, beautiful smile at any age; however, there is an optimal time to begin orthodontic treatment. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have an orthodontic evaluation by age seven. At this stage, many developing issues involving the teeth and jaws can be identified, allowing us to determine whether early treatment may be beneficial.
An early orthodontic evaluation allows for the timely detection of potential concerns and provides the opportunity for more effective treatment when needed. By carefully monitoring growth and development, we can guide jaw growth, address developing problems, and help prevent more complex issues in the future.
Even when early treatment is not necessary, regular observation enables us to determine the ideal time to begin treatment and achieve the best possible results. Most importantly, parents can feel confident knowing their child's dental development is being closely monitored by an orthodontic specialist.
Advantages of Early Interceptive (Phase 1) Treatment
- Create room for crowded teeth
- Create facial symmetry by modifying or influencing jaw growth
- Reduce the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth
- Preserve space for unerupted teeth
- Reduce the need for permanent tooth removal
- Reduce treatment time with full braces
- Prevent possible jaw surgery in the future as an adult
Phase 1 Orthodontics is beneficial for three main reasons:
- Jaw correction such as an overbite, underbite, or small jaws
- Addressing harmful oral habits like thumb sucking or tongue thrusting, which can cause the teeth to erupt incorrectly and/or affect jaw growth
- Some teeth may be growing in a position that can cause damage to the teeth and supporting gums/bones.
While Phase 1 focuses more on the jaws, Phase 2 is more for the teeth. Phase 2 involves full braces or Invisalign®, and we usually wait until all or almost all the permanent teeth have erupted. In Phase 2, we will finalize the bite, teeth position, and smile.
Not everyone needs Phase 1, but visiting our Laguna Niguel orthodontic office early can determine the optimal time to start treatment.
More than just braces!
Orthodontic treatment at Frial Orthodontics isn’t just about braces—it’s about fun! Many of our patients enjoy coming to our office since we create a fun-loving environment. We organize games and raffles throughout the year for the children to win prizes. The kids love picking fun colors for their braces for the upcoming holidays, their favorite sport teams, school colors, to name a few.
See what other patients had to say about their experience with Dr. Frial's Orthodontics for Children!
TESTIMONIAL #1
“Dr. Frial is fantastic!! Both of my kids have beautiful smiles thanks to his work!! Phase 1 was extremely easy and pain free for both my son and daughter. The office staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful. Everything about Frial Orthodontics is professional and service is top notch!!” – N.R.