Phase 1 Orthodontics
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Early Orthodontic Treatment That Helps Guide Healthy Growth
At Reichheld Ting Orthodontics, we believe the best orthodontic care often begins before all permanent teeth have erupted. Phase 1 Orthodontics, also known as early interceptive orthodontic treatment, is designed to identify and correct developing orthodontic problems while a child's jaw is still growing. Early treatment can help create a healthier foundation for a lifetime of confident smiles while reducing the need for more complex treatment later.
Our experienced orthodontists use advanced technology and personalized treatment planning to determine whether early intervention is the right choice for your child. Learn more about Dr. Tim Reichheld and our commitment to providing exceptional orthodontic care for children throughout Acton, Billerica, Lowell, Westford & Chelmsford.
Why Phase 1 Orthodontics Matters
Not every child requires early orthodontic treatment, but for those who do, beginning treatment at the right time can provide significant long-term benefits. Rather than waiting for orthodontic problems to become more severe, Phase 1 treatment works with your child's natural growth to encourage healthy jaw development and proper tooth eruption.
Benefits of early orthodontic treatment may include:
Guiding jaw growth into a healthier position
Creating space for incoming permanent teeth
Correcting bite problems before they become more complicated and reducing crowding and impacted teet
Lowering the likelihood of adult tooth extractions later
Supporting healthy facial growth and development, helping improve airway development in appropriate cases
Our goal is not simply to straighten teeth early, but to create the best possible environment for future orthodontic success.
When Should My Child See an Orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends every child receive an orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this stage, enough permanent teeth have developed to identify potential concerns with jaw growth, bite alignment, and tooth eruption.
Many children will simply be monitored until they're older, while others may benefit from early treatment to address developing issues before they worsen.
If your child is approaching age seven, we encourage scheduling a complimentary consultation. You can also learn more about what to expect during Your First Visit.
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Signs Your Child May Benefit from Phase 1 Orthodontics
Some orthodontic concerns are much easier to correct while a child is still growing.
Your child may benefit from an evaluation if you notice:
Crowded or overlapping teeth
Crossbites, underbites, or severe overbites
Early or delayed loss of baby teeth, difficulty chewing or biting comfortably
Protruding front teeth, mouth breathing or airway concerns and thumb sucking or tongue-thrust habits
Jaws that appear too narrow or uneven
An early evaluation allows our orthodontists to determine whether treatment should begin now or simply be monitored over time.
What Does Phase 1 Treatment Include?
Every child develops differently, so treatment is always customized to meet their individual needs.
Depending on your child's orthodontic concerns, Phase 1 treatment may include:
Palatal expanders to encourage healthy jaw growth
Limited braces to guide tooth movement
Space maintainers to preserve room for permanent teeth
Habit appliances to address thumb sucking or tongue posture
Invisalign First® clear aligners for qualifying younger patients
Other specialized Orthodontic Appliances designed to support proper development
By working with natural growth rather than waiting until development is complete, Phase 1 treatment can often simplify future orthodontic care.
How Long Does Phase 1 Orthodontics Take?
Most Phase 1 treatment plans last approximately 9 to 12 months, although treatment time varies depending on each child's specific needs.
After active treatment, patients enter a monitoring phase where we regularly evaluate jaw growth and permanent tooth eruption. Once all permanent teeth have developed, some patients benefit from a second phase of treatment to fine-tune their smile using Braces or Invisalign.
Phase 1 vs. Phase 2 Orthodontics
Although they work together, these two phases have different goals.
Phase 1 Orthodontics:
Performed while baby teeth are still present
Focuses on jaw growth and development
Corrects early bite problems
Creates space for permanent teeth
Addresses developing orthodontic concerns
Phase 2 Orthodontics:
Begins after most permanent teeth have erupted
Focuses on final tooth alignment
Fine-tunes bite function
Creates a lasting, healthy smile
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Supporting Healthy Airway Development
One of the unique aspects of our practice is our focus on healthy facial growth and airway development. In some children, early orthodontic treatment can help improve jaw development while supporting healthy breathing patterns.
When appropriate, we incorporate principles of Airway Orthodontics into treatment planning to promote both orthodontic health and overall wellness.
Why Families Choose Reichheld Ting Orthodontics
Families throughout Acton, Billerica, Lowell, and Westford have trusted our practice for generations because we combine advanced orthodontic technology with personalized care.
Patients appreciate:
Complimentary consultations
Digital scans with no messy impressions
Same-day treatment starts when appropriate
Flexible financing options and a welcoming team dedicated to exceptional patient experiences
More than 50 years of orthodontic excellence
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Many children simply require monitoring until additional permanent teeth erupt. An early evaluation allows us to determine whether treatment is necessary or if observation is the best approach.
Possibly. Phase 1 treatment creates a healthier foundation, while Phase 2 treatment focuses on final tooth alignment after permanent teeth erupt. Some children require both phases, while others may need little or no additional treatment.
Most children adjust quickly to orthodontic appliances. Mild pressure is common after placement or adjustments but usually resolves within a few days.
Some orthodontic concerns become more difficult to correct as children grow. Scheduling an evaluation by age seven allows us to determine the ideal timing for treatment without beginning care unnecessarily.
Schedule Your Child's Complimentary Orthodontic Evaluation
Early orthodontic care can make a meaningful difference in your child's long-term oral health and smile development. Our experienced team will evaluate your child's teeth, bite, jaw growth, and overall development to determine whether Phase 1 Orthodontics is recommended.
Contact Reichheld Ting Orthodontics today to schedule a free consultation at one of our convenient locations in Acton, Billerica, Lowell, Westford & Chelmsford and learn how early orthodontic treatment can help your child enjoy a healthy, confident smile.