Early Orthodontic Care

At Modern Orthodontics, we provide early orthodontic treatment, also known as Phase 1 orthodontics or early interceptive orthodontics, at our offices in Tribeca, Harlem, and the Bronx. Our orthodontic specialists trained at Columbia, NYU, Tufts, and Montefiore bring decades of experience helping children achieve healthy, confident smiles. Using advanced technology such as 3D imaging and AI-assisted orthodontic treatment planning, we create personalized plans that fit your child’s needs. If you’re searching for interceptive orthodontics near me, we invite you to schedule a consultation today and see how we can guide your child’s smile from the very beginning.

Early orthodontic treatment, also called Phase 1 orthodontics, focuses on guiding jaw growth and tooth development in younger children. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first evaluation by age 7, when a mix of baby and permanent teeth makes it possible to spot potential concerns early. Even if full treatment is not needed yet, an early evaluation ensures your child’s development is closely monitored.

Our initial consultations are free of charge.

Interceptive orthodontics offers benefits that can last a lifetime. It can:

• Guide proper jaw growth
• Create space for incoming permanent teeth
• Correct harmful oral habits like thumb sucking
• Reduce the need for more invasive treatments later

In a busy city like New York, addressing orthodontic needs early can help your child avoid complex, time-consuming treatments during the teen years.

The ideal age for a first evaluation is around 7 years old. At this stage, orthodontists can identify growth or alignment issues early. Some children may benefit from a consultation even earlier, especially if concerns with bite, speech, or jaw development arise as young as age 2.

Common Issues Parents Should Watch For

• Difficulty biting or chewing
• Thumb sucking or pacifier use past age 4–5
• Mouth breathing or speech difficulties
• Teeth that do not meet properly
• Crowded, misplaced, or blocked-out teeth
• Early or late loss of baby teeth

Some dental concerns are best treated early, including:

• Severe crowding or spacing problems
• Crossbite, underbite, or overbite
• Front teeth that do not touch
• Protruding teeth that are more prone to injury
• Jaw growth problems
• Early loss of baby teeth that could cause shifting

Phase 1 orthodontics can correct bite alignment, manage spacing, and guide healthy jaw development. It can also stop bad habits and protect teeth from injury. These improvements help create a healthier, more balanced smile that may require less treatment later in life.

Insurance coverage varies depending on your plan. Some policies include benefits for children’s orthodontics, while others require a separate rider. At Modern Orthodontics, we help families check their insurance benefits before treatment begins to make the process simple and transparent.

Phase 1 ortho generally lasts between 4 and 18 months, depending on the child’s needs. After treatment, we continue to monitor growth until Phase 2, which usually begins when most of the permanent teeth are in place or erupting.

Your child’s first visit is designed to be comfortable and stress-free. During this appointment, we will:

• Review dental and medical history
• Discuss bite, growth, and alignment
• Determine whether any early treatment is warranted, or create a monitoring plan for the future.

Not everyone needs a first phase of treatment.  If an early, Phase 1 treatment is necessary, we will take orthodontic records (including a 3D scan) in order to create a customized plan for your child.

This personalized approach ensures your child feels supported every step of the way.

Two-phase orthodontic treatment combines early care in childhood with a second phase later on.

• Phase 1 guides jaw growth, creates space, and addresses bite concerns.
• Phase 2 aligns permanent teeth and further addresses issues that affect harmonious growth, the development and maintenance of a healthy bite, and overall appearance.

Early intervention with Phase 1 treatment can result in improved stability, better facial balance, and a reduced need for future extractions or surgery.

• Even if your child’s teeth look straight, bite problems may be hidden.
• Not every child needs treatment at age 7, but an early evaluation helps plan for the future.
• Choosing an orthodontic specialist ensures your child receives care from doctors with advanced training.

At Modern Orthodontics, we believe every child deserves a healthy start to a lifetime of smiles. Families choose us because:

• Our orthodontic specialists have been trained at some of the best learning institutions in the world, including Columbia University, Tufts University, NYU, and Montefiore Hospital.
• Our orthodontists bring decades of experience to bear as they personally design the treatment plan for your child.
• We use the latest technology including digital scanning, AI-assisted treatment planning, and 3D-printed appliances.
• We offer convenient locations in Tribeca, Harlem, and the Bronx.
• Our offices are modern, welcoming, and designed to put children at ease.