Early orthodontic treatment, also called Phase 1 or interceptive treatment, is care given while a child still has some baby teeth. It guides erupting teeth into a more favorable position, preserves space for permanent teeth, and can reduce the chance of injuring protruded front teeth. In Everett, board-certified orthodontist Dr. Lauren Lewandowski provides early treatment for children.
Catching an orthodontic problem early can make all the difference. At Advanced Orthodontics Everett, early orthodontic treatment for children focuses on guiding healthy growth while the jaw and mouth are still developing. Dr. Lauren Lewandowski is a board-certified orthodontist who looks at the whole picture, including how your child breathes and how the jaw is forming, so small issues can be addressed before they become bigger, more complex ones. We welcome young patients from Everett, Mill Creek, and the surrounding communities.
What Is Phase 1 (Interceptive) Treatment?
Phase 1, or interceptive, orthodontic treatment is an early round of care that takes advantage of a child’s natural growth. Rather than waiting for all the adult teeth to come in, Dr. Lewandowski uses this window to guide jaw development, create room for crowded teeth, and correct habits or bite problems early. Not every child needs Phase 1 treatment, and part of our job is telling you honestly whether your child does or whether it is better to simply watch and wait.
The Rule of 7: When to Bring Your Child In
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have a first orthodontic checkup by age 7. This is sometimes called the rule of 7. By this age, enough adult teeth and jaw growth are present for Dr. Lewandowski to spot developing concerns, even though treatment may not begin right away. An early visit is simply a checkpoint, and there is no cost to it.
Signs Your Child May Benefit from Early Treatment
Crowded or noticeably crooked front teeth
A bite that looks off, such as an underbite, overbite, or crossbite
Difficulty chewing or biting
Mouth breathing, snoring, or restless sleep
Thumb sucking past age 5
Early or late loss of baby teeth
A narrow upper jaw or palate
What Early Treatment Can Do
Depending on what Dr. Lewandowski finds, early treatment may include guiding jaw growth, gently widening a narrow upper jaw with a palate expander, holding space for adult teeth, or correcting habits like thumb sucking. Because a wider upper jaw also supports better breathing, early care often connects with our airway orthodontics focus, an area Dr. Lewandowski is especially passionate about. The goal is always the same: a healthier foundation and, in many cases, simpler treatment later on.
Phase 1 and Phase 2
When a child has early treatment, it is usually followed later by a shorter second phase, often a full set of braces once the adult teeth are in. Because Phase 1 has already guided growth and made room, Phase 2 is frequently easier and faster than it would have been otherwise.
The Cost of Early Treatment in Everett
Every child is different, so the cost of Phase 1 treatment depends on what your child needs and how long care takes. We keep treatment affordable with flexible monthly financing and we accept most insurance. Your child’s first visit is a complimentary consultation, and you will receive a clear estimate before anything begins.
We know you may have questions about orthodontic care and what to expect along the way. This section offers clear, straightforward answers to help you understand how treatment works and how we support you through each step. It’s an easy way to learn more before your first visit and feel confident about your smile journey.
Does my child really need Phase 1 treatment?
Not every child does. Some benefit greatly from early care, while others are better served by waiting. Dr. Lewandowski will give you an honest recommendation at your child’s complimentary checkup, and if waiting is the right call, that is exactly what we will advise.
How much does Phase 1 treatment cost in Everett?
It depends on your child’s needs and the length of treatment. We offer flexible monthly financing and accept most insurance, and your consultation includes a personalized estimate with no obligation.
How long does Phase 1 treatment take?
Phase 1 usually lasts several months to about a year, depending on the goal. It is followed by a rest period while the adult teeth come in, and sometimes a shorter second phase later.
Will my child still need braces after early treatment?
Often, yes, but a shorter and simpler course. Phase 1 guides growth and makes room, so any later braces tend to be easier and faster than they would have been without early care.
