Early Orthodontic Treatment Great Falls, MT
During childhood, orthodontic problems can develop without warning. Fortunately, treatment can help restore your child's smile. Early orthodontics straighten crooked teeth, improve the bite, and fix jaw misalignment.
Phase 1 orthodontics is available at Cottonwood Family Dentistry in Great Falls and the surrounding area. Our team provides care to children of all ages. We help families explore their options for cost-conscious orthodontic treatments. Call us at (406) 296-7725 to learn more.
Early Orthodontic Problems and Their Causes
When children still have their baby teeth, they may show signs of needing early orthodontic interventions to correct certain problems. Children with extra teeth or exceptionally crowded teeth may be candidates for early treatment. Teeth that are excessively spaced out may also be a sign that early orthodontics could be beneficial.
Besides the spacing and positioning of the teeth, early orthodontics may also benefit children with bite problems. An underbite, where the lower teeth jut out further from the upper teeth, and a crossbite, where the jaw appears to shift to the side, may be successfully treated with early orthodontics. Genetics is the most common reason why a young child may have a bite problem, but some of these problems may be linked to thumb-sucking, prolonged pacifier use, or bottle use.
“When children still have their baby teeth, they may show signs of needing early orthodontic interventions to correct certain problems.”
Phase 1 of Treatment
During phase 1 treatment, the orthodontist may use a variety of dental appliances to help align the patient's teeth. Phase 1 treatment usually occurs when the child still has their baby teeth. There are also some early orthodontics treatments that use braces during phase 1.
The orthodontist may use space maintainers or spacers to help space out crowded teeth. Expanders are also used during some phase 1 treatment plans to help gently expand the palate. Phase 1 treatment may also consist of appliances such as headgear, retainers, and braces to guide the jawbone and permanent teeth growth into a better position.
“Phase 1 treatment may also consist of appliances such as headgear, retainers, and braces to guide the jawbone and permanent teeth growth into a better position.”
What to Expect After Stage 1 Treatment
Phase 1 orthodontics usually lasts for one to two years, and most patients finish stage 1 treatment by age nine. During phase 1, the child may have regular checkups with their dental team. The team adjusts orthodontic appliances and takes measurements. They make sure the child stays on track. After phase 1 is complete, the child has a rest period. The dental team may remove phase 1 appliances and stop treatment. At this stage, the team can let parents know whether their child needs phase 2 care.
“Phase 1 usually lasts for 1-2 years, and most patients finish stage 1 treatment by age nine.”
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Moving Onto Phase 2 of Treatment
After completing phase 1, the next step is phase 2 orthodontic treatment. Cottonwood Family Dentistry carefully evaluates each patient's progress during phase 1 before transitioning to the next step. Here is what happens during phase 2 of an early orthodontic treatment plan:
- Resting. Some patients may need to enter a resting phase before starting phase 2. During this step, the patient may need to only wear a retainer and have monitoring appointments. When the teeth are in the resting stage, the orthodontist will not place new dental appliances or braces.
- Straightening. Then, the child is ready for braces. Our staff places the wires, bands, and brackets onto the child’s teeth during an appointment. This stage may take between 12 and 24 months.
- Monitoring. Throughout the phase 2 treatment, the patient must come in for regular monitoring appointments. During an appointment, the dental provider will check the patient’s progress and may make adjustments. Once treatment is done, the orthodontist may recommend wearing a retainer to keep the teeth in alignment.
“Some patients may need to enter a resting phase before starting phase 2.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. What causes early orthodontic problems?
Q. What happens during phase 1 of treatment?
Q. What happens during phase 2 of treatment?
Q. How long does Phase 1 last?
Q. When should I seek care for childhood dental problems?
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When to Seek Care for Early Orthodontic Problems
Parents should seek an evaluation right away if their child develops dental problems. The sooner the child receives treatment, the better. Early orthodontic care can shorten treatment times and improve a child's oral health. Delaying treatment could result in long-lasting dental problems.
Preventive care is an important part of any orthodontic plan. Parents should make sure to keep up with exams and cleanings, and reach out for help if their child develops tooth pain. The dental team can offer guidance, support, and intervention.
“Early orthodontic care can shorten treatment times and improve your child’s oral health.”
Frequently Asked Questions About Early Orthodontic Treatment
Q. What is phase 1 orthodontics?
A. Phase 1 orthodontic treatment usually takes place between ages six and nine. During phase 1 care, the dental team looks for developing problems. They check your child's bite and jaw alignment. The team also takes steps to improve the alignment of adult teeth. Phase 1 usually involves retainers, palate expanders, and space maintainers.
Q. Does my child need phase 1 care?
A. All children should receive an orthodontic evaluation by age seven. During the assessment, the dental team performs a full exam. The team can let you know whether your child would benefit from early orthodontics.
Q. How can I find out if my child needs braces?
A. During the initial evaluation, the team may be able to determine whether your child needs braces. But in some cases, the team may delay their recommendations until phase 1 orthodontics is complete. Sometimes, teeth can shift during childhood and change treatment outcomes. Phase 1 treatment may also reduce or eliminate the need for braces.
Q. How long does orthodontic treatment last?
A. Phase 1 orthodontics usually lasts one to two years. If your child needs phase 2 treatment, their orthodontic treatment may continue. Phase 2 treatment might last for about one to three years. The dental team may also suggest breaks during various stages of treatment. Your dental provider can offer a detailed treatment timeline.
Q. How much does orthodontic treatment cost?
A. Treatment costs may vary depending on insurance coverage. Costs also depend on what type of treatment your child needs and how long your child remains in treatment. Our office team can provide more information about early orthodontics costs and coverage.
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Dental Terminology
Call Us To Find Out More
To get your child evaluated for possible early orthodontics treatment, call us today at 406-296-7725. Not every child is a candidate for a two-phased treatment, and only an orthodontist can determine the proper course of action. In Great Falls we provide complete orthodontic services for all phases of treatment.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2026
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2026
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2026
About our business and website security
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