Early Orthodontic Treatment in San Diego
Early orthodontic treatment, also called Phase 1, uses the years when a child’s jaw and teeth are still developing to guide growth, make room for permanent teeth, and correct problems before they become harder to fix.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic checkup by age 7. At Elite Orthodontics Group in San Diego, Dr. Nader Ehsani and Dr. Sherry Sabet evaluate each child and recommend early care only when it offers a clear, lasting benefit.
Catching an orthodontic problem early can change how the rest of a child’s treatment unfolds. At Elite Orthodontics Group, early evaluations let us spot concerns while a child is still growing, time any treatment for the right moment, and often prevent more complex work later. When treatment is not needed yet, we simply watch and wait, at no cost to you.
When Should Your Child First See an Orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have an orthodontic checkup by age 7. By that age, enough permanent teeth and jaw growth are in place for Dr. Ehsani and Dr. Sabet to see how the bite is developing and whether anything needs attention.
Your family dentist may also suggest an earlier visit if they notice a concern. An early evaluation does not mean early braces. In most cases it simply tells us whether to act now or keep monitoring.
Why Early (Phase 1) Treatment Matters
Phase 1 treatment focuses on guiding growth rather than straightening every tooth. Because a young jaw is still forming, gentle, well-timed care can do things that are far harder to achieve once growth is finished.
Early treatment may help by:
- Guiding the jaw to grow in better balance
- Creating space for permanent teeth and reducing future crowding
- Lowering the risk of injury to protruding front teeth
- Correcting habits such as thumb sucking or tongue thrusting
- Improving how the bite functions day to day
Does Every Child Need Early Treatment?
No. Many children do not need anything done early, and some problems are better handled in the teen years once all the permanent teeth are in. We never recommend treatment a child does not need.
Every young patient gets a personalized evaluation, and if early care is not warranted, your child joins our Orthodontic Supervisory Program instead.
What Is the Orthodontic Supervisory Program?
The Orthodontic Supervisory Program is for children who are not ready to begin treatment but should be watched as they grow. Through brief check-ups, usually every 6 to 8 months, our team tracks tooth eruption and jaw development so that if treatment is ever needed, it begins at exactly the right time. The program:
- Follows how teeth are coming in and how the jaws are growing
- Flags changes that may call for treatment down the road
- Suggests simple preventive steps that help
There is no charge to participate, and it gives parents real peace of mind during the growing years.
Supporting Healthy Growth and Breathing
Because Phase 1 care aligns with a child’s growth, it can also support jaw and airway development. Guiding a narrow upper jaw wider, for example, can create room for teeth and may also support better breathing.
This overlaps with our airway-focused orthodontics, and in older children and teens, we sometimes use palatal expansion (MARPE) when more room is needed. If your child snores, mouth-breathes, or sleeps restlessly, mention it. Those clues matter, and you can read more on our snoring and sleep apnea page.
Will My Child Still Need Braces Later?
Often, yes. Early treatment solves the biggest problems first and makes later care simpler, but most children still need a second phase with full braces or clear aligners in their teens to fine-tune the bite and finish alignment. In some cases, early care is all that is needed. Either way, the goal is the same: the healthiest result with the least amount of treatment overall.
Keep Up With Regular Dental Visits
Early orthodontic care works best alongside routine dental care. Keep up with cleanings and checkups with your family dentist every six months so your child’s teeth and gums stay healthy throughout this important stage. Se habla español.
Schedule Your Child’s Early Evaluation in San Diego
The best time to find out where your child stands is now. Book a friendly, no-pressure evaluation with Dr. Ehsani or Dr. Sabet and get a clear answer on whether to treat or simply watch and wait. Conveniently located in Serra Mesa / Kearny Mesa, serving Mission Valley, La Jolla, Clairemont, and central San Diego.
> Schedule an evaluation → Request an appointment · (858) 277-8080 · Se habla español.
Reviewed by Dr. Nader Ehsani, board-certified orthodontist (American Board of Orthodontics). Meet Dr. Ehsani.
Frequently Asked Questions
Choosing the right time for orthodontic treatment is an important part of your child’s long-term oral health. Below are answers to common questions about early orthodontic evaluations, Phase 1 treatment, jaw development, and how early care can help create a healthy foundation for a lasting smile.
What appliances are used during early treatment?
It varies by case, but common tools include palatal expanders, space maintainers, and partial (limited) braces. Each is chosen to support jaw growth or hold space for permanent teeth.
Is early treatment uncomfortable for children?
Most children feel only mild pressure or soreness when an appliance is first placed or adjusted, and it usually settles within a few days. We coach families on simple comfort tips.
How often will my child come in during early treatment?
Active Phase 1 visits are typically every 6 to 10 weeks so we can check progress and make small adjustments. Supervisory Program visits are less frequent, usually every 6 to 8 months.
My child is younger than 7. Is it too early to come in?
Not necessarily. If you or your dentist notice a concern, such as a crossbite, a habit, or crowding, we are happy to take a look sooner and advise whether to act or wait.
