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Phase 1 Orthodontic Treatment in Pinecrest, FL

Dr. Victoria Rothman, voted best Orthodontist in Pinecrest since 2018.

First-class orthodontic care

Early Orthodontic Treatment for Growing Smiles

If you’re looking for Phase 1 orthodontic treatment in Pinecrest, Palmetto Bay, Cutler Bay, Kendall, South Miami, or Homestead, Pinecrest Orthodontics is here to help.

As children grow, their teeth and jaws are constantly developing. While many children will not need orthodontic treatment until all of their permanent teeth have erupted, some benefit from early, or interceptive, orthodontic treatment to address developing problems before they become more complex.

At Pinecrest Orthodontics, Dr. Victoria Rothman believes in providing the right treatment at the right time. Our goal is never to begin treatment too early or delay treatment when early intervention could make a meaningful difference.

We are experts with early smiles.

What Is Phase 1 Orthodontic Treatment?​

Phase 1 orthodontic treatment, also known as interceptive orthodontic treatment, is orthodontic care provided while a child still has a combination of baby teeth and permanent teeth.

Rather than focusing solely on straightening teeth, Phase 1 treatment is designed to guide healthy jaw development, improve the bite, create space for permanent teeth, and address orthodontic concerns while a child is still growing.

Because children experience significant growth during these years, early treatment can take advantage of natural development in ways that may not be possible later.

Dr. Victoria Rothman top rated orthodontist in miami

Does Every Child Need Phase 1 Treatment?

No. In fact, most children do not require early orthodontic treatment.

While the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7, many children simply need periodic observation until the timing is right for comprehensive orthodontic treatment.

At Pinecrest Orthodontics, we carefully monitor growth and development before recommending treatment. If early intervention isn’t necessary, we’ll continue to observe your child’s smile and begin treatment only when it will provide the greatest benefit.

When Is Phase 1 Treatment Recommended?

Dr. Rothman may recommend early orthodontic treatment to address concerns such as:

  • Crossbites

  • Significant crowding

  • Narrow upper jaws

  • Severe protrusion of the front teeth

  • Developing bite discrepancies

  • Harmful oral habits, such as thumb sucking or tongue thrusting

  • Problems with jaw growth or development

  • Insufficient space for erupting permanent teeth

  • Confidence/self-esteem issues related to teeth misalignment

Every child’s smile develops differently, so recommendations are always based on a comprehensive orthodontic evaluation.

invisalign first
Helpful Answers

Early Orthodontics Guide

What Are the Goals of Phase 1 Treatment?

The purpose of Phase 1 treatment is to create the healthiest possible foundation for future growth.

Goals may include:

  • Guiding jaw development

  • Creating space for permanent teeth

  • Correcting developing bite problems

  • Improving facial balance

  • Reducing the risk of dental trauma to protruding front teeth

  • Simplifying future orthodontic treatment

  • Supporting long-term oral health

  • Improve confidence and self-esteem

Not every child who completes Phase 1 treatment will avoid a second phase of orthodontic treatment. Instead, early treatment often helps make future treatment more efficient and predictable.

What Types of Treatment Are Used During Phase 1?

Every child receives a personalized treatment plan based on their individual needs.

Depending on your child's orthodontic concerns, Phase 1 treatment may include:

  • Invisalign First

  • Traditional braces

  • Palatal expanders

  • Invisalign Palatal Expander

  • Habit appliances

  • Class II correctors

  • Observation until additional treatment is appropriate

Dr. Rothman will explain every recommendation and answer your questions so you feel confident in your child's treatment plan.

What Happens After Phase 1 Treatment?

Once Phase 1 treatment is complete, children enter an observation period.

During this time, Dr. Rothman monitors the eruption of permanent teeth and the continued growth of the jaws through periodic observation appointments.

When all—or most—of the permanent teeth have erupted, some patients will benefit from Phase 2 (comprehensive) orthodontic treatment, which may include braces or Invisalign to achieve ideal alignment and a healthy bite.

Why Families Choose Pinecrest Orthodontics

Choosing an orthodontist is an important decision, and we understand you want to know you're making the right one.

At Pinecrest Orthodontics, every patient receives expert specialty orthodontic care in a warm, welcoming environment. Dr. Victoria Rothman combines advanced training, modern technology, and personalized treatment planning to provide exceptional orthodontic care for children, teens, and adults.

Families throughout Pinecrest, Palmetto Bay, Cutler Bay, Kendall, South Miami, Homestead, and the surrounding communities trust Pinecrest Orthodontics because we offer:

  • Honest treatment recommendations

  • Personalized care for every child

  • Expertise in early orthodontic treatment

  • Advanced digital technology

  • Invisalign First, braces, and specialized orthodontic appliances

  • A boutique, family-friendly practice

  • Flexible scheduling and interest-free financing

Our goal is always to recommend the treatment that will provide the healthiest, most predictable result for your child.

Frequently Asked Questions About Phase 1 Orthodontic Treatment

What is the best age for a child's first orthodontic evaluation?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. This doesn't mean treatment will begin at that age—it simply allows Dr. Rothman to identify developing concerns and determine the ideal timing for treatment.

Does every child need Phase 1 treatment?

No. Most children do not require early orthodontic treatment. Many simply benefit from periodic observation until all of their permanent teeth have erupted.

Does Phase 1 treatment eliminate the need for braces later?

Not always. Many children will still benefit from Phase 2 orthodontic treatment after their permanent teeth erupt. However, Phase 1 treatment can simplify future treatment and help create a healthier, more stable foundation.

What appliances are used during Phase 1 treatment?

Depending on your child's needs, treatment may include Invisalign First, braces, palatal expanders, Invisalign Palatal Expanders, habit appliances, Class II correctors, or other orthodontic appliances.

How do I know if my child needs early orthodontic treatment?

The best way to determine whether your child is a candidate is through a comprehensive orthodontic evaluation. Dr. Rothman will assess your child's teeth, bite, jaw growth, and overall development before making any treatment recommendations.

You’re in the right place.

Schedule Your Complimentary Smile Consultation

Whether your child needs early orthodontic treatment or simply an orthodontic evaluation, we’re here to help.

During your complimentary Smile Consultation, Dr. Victoria Rothman will perform a comprehensive orthodontic examination, discuss your child’s growth and development, and explain whether Phase 1 treatment, continued observation, or a different approach is recommended.

At Pinecrest Orthodontics, we believe every child deserves the same thoughtful, personalized care we would want for our own family. Together, we’ll determine the right treatment at the right time to create a healthy bite, a confident smile, and results that last a lifetime.