FAQs

CLINICAL/TREATMENT QUESTIONS:

What is the orthodontic “Observation Phase”?

The observation phase (also known as Growth and Development) is a proactive, doctor-guided period where we monitor your child’s growth and dental development before braces are needed. Many children are first evaluated around age 7, when early signs of orthodontic concerns can appear, but treatment may not be needed just yet. During this phase, your orthodontist checks in every 6 -12 months to track growth and ensure your child’s smile is developing as expected.

Why did my child have an orthodontic evaluation so young?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an initial evaluation by age 7 because this is when the jaws, bite, and emerging adult teeth start to show patterns that can affect long-term oral health. Early evaluations allow us to:

• Detect jaw growth concerns early
• Monitor how baby teeth are lost and adult teeth erupt
• Identify bite issues that may benefit from early intervention
• Plan the right treatment at the right time, not too early, not too late

What should we expect at the first consultation?

Your child’s first orthodontic visit is gentle, informative, and stress-free. There’s no pressure to start treatment or commit to future treatment on that day. It’s about understanding how your child’s teeth and jaws are growing. Here’s what typically happens:

• Review of History - We’ll start by asking about your child’s dental and medical history, any habits (like thumb-sucking or mouth breathing), and your concerns.
•  Visual Exam of Teeth, Bite & Jaw -  The orthodontist will gently look at how the teeth fit together; how the jaw moves and grows; any early signs of crowding or bite issues.
• Imaging & Records - We’ll take digital photographs, and low-dose X-rays or 3D scans. These help us see where adult teeth are coming in and check beneath the gum line.

After the exam, we’ll create a tracking plan if we’re watching development over time. Appointments are typically 30-45 minutes. 

Does being in observation mean my child will definitely need braces?

Not necessarily. This phase allows us to make informed decisions based on how your child grows.

Our goal is always to:

• Time treatment for the most effective results
• Reduce the length and complexity of future braces when possible
• Take early action when needed

How long does the observation phase last?

Each child’s timeline is unique. And that’s why regular check-ins matter. The observation phase depends upon:

• Your child’s age at their first visit
• How quickly they’re growing
• When adult teeth begin to erupt
• Whether early treatment becomes beneficial

What is the orthodontist monitoring during this phase?

At each visit, we carefully evaluate:

• Jaw growth and alignment
• Loss of baby teeth
• Eruption of permanent teeth
• Bite concerns, such as:
  • Crossbite
  • Overbite
  • Underbite
  • Open bite
• Spacing or crowding
• Habits like thumb-sucking or tongue thrusting

Small changes over time can tell us a lot, and guide us toward the best next step.

What should I watch for at home between visits?

Parents play an important role during the observation phase. Let us know if you notice:

• Difficulty chewing or biting
• Early or late loss of baby teeth
• Adult teeth coming in crooked or blocked
• Jaw shifting or popping
• Mouth breathing or snoring
• Thumb-sucking beyond age 6–7
• Teeth that don’t touch when biting down
• One side of the jaw growing differently than the other

If something doesn’t look or feel right, don’t wait, we’re always happy to check.

Why are 6-month checkups important if no treatment is happening yet?

Children grow quickly, and dental changes can happen fast. Regular observation visits allow us to:

• Catch concerns early
• Monitor growth patterns
• Step in at the ideal moment if treatment is needed

These visits are about staying ahead, not waiting until a problem becomes bigger.

Will my child receive X-rays at every 6-month observation visit?

No. X-rays are not taken at every follow-up appointment during the observation phase. Orthodontists follow strict clinical guidelines using low-dose digital X-rays.  X-rays are only taken when they provide important new information that can’t be seen during a visual exam. X-rays may be recommended at the initial consultation (to see developing adult teeth and jaw structure), and if there’s a significant growth change. Your orthodontist will always explain why an X-ray is needed before taking it.

Will early intervention help my child avoid braces later?

In some cases, yes. Early intervention can:

• Guide jaw growth
• Create space for adult teeth
• Reduce the need for tooth extractions
• Shorten or simplify future braces

If early treatment is recommended, your orthodontist will explain why, when, and how it helps.

What does “Phase 1 Orthodontic treatment” mean?

Phase 1 treatment (also called early interceptive treatment) is orthodontic care that begins while a child still has a mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth, typically between ages 7–10. The goal isn’t to straighten every tooth yet, it’s to guide jaw growth, improve bite function, and create space so permanent teeth can come in more easily. Phase 1 treatment is not full braces and it’s not just “prep work” either. It focuses on specific developmental issues that are best corrected while a child is still growing. Some children may wear:

• A partial set of braces (on select teeth)
• A palatal expander
• Other orthodontic appliances designed to guide growth

Phase 1 may be recommended if your orthodontist sees:

• Narrow or crowded dental arches
• Crossbite, underbite, or severe overbite
• Jaw growth that’s not balanced
• Adult teeth erupting in the wrong position
• Risk of impacted or blocked teeth
• Harmful oral habits affecting development (thumb-sucking, tongue posture)

After Phase 1, there is usually a resting or observation period where remaining baby teeth fall out naturally and adult teeth continue to erupt.

How can I help my child feel positive about these visits?

Keep it simple and encouraging:

• Explain that these visits help keep their smile healthy
• Celebrate milestones like losing baby teeth
• Reassure them that many visits are “just check-ups”

We strive to make every visit comfortable, educational, and kid-friendly.

What if we do nothing and just wait until all adult teeth come in?

Observation ensures we’re not guessing. We’re making decisions based on real growth data. Waiting can sometimes mean:

• More complex treatment later
• Longer time in braces
• Increased risk of jaw or bite issues becoming harder to correct

 

FINANCIAL QUESTIONS: