Children's Braces
Early Intervention, Lifelong Results

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children receive an initial orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this age, the first permanent molars and incisors have erupted, allowing our providers to assess tooth eruption patterns, jaw development, and early bite problems that are far simpler to address during active growth than after the skeleton has matured.

A panoramic X-ray reveals all erupted and unerupted teeth, root development, jaw bone levels, and growth centres. Combined with a clinical examination and facial assessment, this allows our providers to forecast tooth eruption sequences, identify space deficiencies before they become crowding problems, and determine whether early intervention is genuinely necessary or whether watchful waiting is appropriate.

Not every child requires Phase 1 treatment, but when jaw discrepancies, severe crossbites, or eruption problems are identified, early intervention with expanders, partial braces, or habit appliances can harness the growth process to create space, correct jaw width, and guide erupting teeth. Phase 1 treatment typically lasts 9–12 months and can dramatically simplify or even eliminate the need for Phase 2 treatment.

After Phase 1, a resting period allows the remaining permanent teeth to erupt into the widened arch. Our doctors monitor eruption progress at regular check-up appointments—typically every 6–9 months—and retainers may be worn during this phase to preserve Phase 1 gains. This monitoring period is crucial to timing Phase 2 treatment optimally.

Once all permanent teeth have erupted (usually ages 11–14), comprehensive braces are placed on all teeth to finalise alignment, close any residual spaces, and achieve a precisely balanced bite. Because the jaw has already been corrected in Phase 1, Phase 2 treatment is typically shorter and simpler. Treatment concludes with bonded retainers and removable retainers for lifelong retention.