What is Phase 1 orthodontic treatment?

Phase 1 (interceptive) orthodontic treatment occurs in children aged 7–10, while baby teeth are still present. It addresses skeletal problems like crossbites, severe crowding, or jaw discrepancies that are easier to correct during active jaw growth. Not all children need Phase 1 - only about 15–20% benefit from early treatment.

How much do braces cost for a child?

In 2026, metal braces cost $3,000–$7,500 for full comprehensive treatment. Ceramic braces cost $4,000–$8,500. Invisalign Teen runs $3,500–$8,500. Phase 1 early treatment adds $2,000–$4,000 if needed before comprehensive treatment. Use our Braces & Invisalign Cost Estimator for a detailed breakdown.

Orthodontic Readiness Checker - Is My Child Ready for Braces?

Q: At what age should a child get braces?

Most children begin comprehensive orthodontic treatment between ages 11–14, when most permanent teeth have erupted. However, an initial orthodontic assessment is recommended by age 7 to identify issues that may benefit from early (Phase 1) intervention. Invisalign for teens typically begins at age 12–13.

Orthodontic Readiness Checker

For parents - guides orthodontic timing conversations

Step 1 - Child's Age & Dental Stage

Child's Age (years)

yrs

Current Dentition Stage

Has your child had an orthodontic assessment?

Step 2 - What Do You Observe?

Answer as accurately as possible. You can ask your child's dentist for help with any of these if unsure.

Visible crowding - teeth overlapping or out of line

Large gaps between teeth

Deep overbite - upper front teeth cover most of lower teeth

Underbite - lower teeth in front of upper teeth when biting

Crossbite - upper teeth bite inside lower teeth on one side

Open bite - gap between front teeth when back teeth are together

Protruding upper front teeth (buck teeth)

Prolonged thumb sucking or dummy use (past age 4)

Habitual mouth breathing

Jaw shifting, clicking, or asymmetry when biting

Teeth erupting in unusual positions or order

Child or parent concerned about appearance of teeth

😁 Orthodontic Readiness Results

/ 100

😁

Readiness Level

Assessment

Recommended Action

Next step

Optimal Treatment Age

If treatment needed

💰 Estimated Treatment Costs (2026 US National Average)

Metal braces (full treatment)$3,000–$7,500

Ceramic braces$4,000–$8,500

Invisalign Teen$3,500–$8,500

Phase 1 early treatment$2,000–$4,000

For a detailed personalised estimate, use our Braces & Invisalign Cost Estimator →

Disclaimer: This tool provides general guidance only and is not a clinical orthodontic assessment. It cannot replace an in-person evaluation by an orthodontist. Always seek a professional consultation for orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning.

When Should My Child See an Orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends a first orthodontic screening by age 7. At this age, the first permanent molars have usually erupted and the bite is established - making it possible to identify developing problems early. This doesn't mean treatment starts at 7; it means problems are identified when they are easiest to address.

Once you've used this checker, visit our Child's Dental Age Calculator to understand your child's current developmental stage, and our Braces & Invisalign Cost Estimator to plan the financial side. For the broader context of your child's dental development, see our Baby Teeth Eruption Chart.

Phase 1 vs Phase 2 Orthodontic Treatment

Phase 1 (Interceptive) Treatment - Ages 7–10. Addresses skeletal problems during active jaw growth: crossbites, severe crowding, underbites, or significant overbites. Typically uses expanders, partial braces, or functional appliances. Not all children need Phase 1 - only those with problems that are significantly easier or only possible to correct while jaw growth is active.

Phase 2 (Comprehensive) Treatment - Ages 11–14. Full orthodontic treatment after most or all permanent teeth have erupted. Traditional braces or Invisalign Teen. Addresses alignment, spacing, and bite refinement. The majority of orthodontic patients begin here without a prior Phase 1.

Common Orthodontic Issues and Their Urgency

Underbite: Most urgent - best corrected during jaw growth (ages 7–10). Becomes surgical after growth ceases.
Crossbite: High priority - causes jaw asymmetry if untreated. Expander treatment in early mixed dentition.
Open bite: Often habit-related (thumb sucking). Address the habit first; orthodontic treatment after.
Deep overbite: Can wait until comprehensive treatment phase (ages 11–14) in most cases.
Crowding: Mild-moderate crowding usually waits for Phase 2. Severe crowding may benefit from Phase 1 expansion.
Spacing: Rarely urgent. Usually addressed in comprehensive treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

At what age should a child get braces?

Most comprehensive orthodontic treatment begins between ages 11–14, when most permanent teeth have erupted. However, first orthodontic assessment is recommended at age 7. Children with underbites, crossbites, or severe jaw discrepancies may benefit from Phase 1 early treatment at ages 7–10. Use our Dental Age Calculator to confirm your child's current developmental stage.

Does my child need Phase 1 treatment?

Only about 15–20% of children benefit from Phase 1 (early interceptive) treatment. The clearest indications are: underbite (lower jaw protrusion), posterior crossbite causing jaw shifting, severe crowding requiring palate expansion, or significantly protruding upper incisors at risk of trauma. If your checker result shows "Phase 1 Assessment" - seek an orthodontic consultation promptly.

Can children get Invisalign?

Invisalign Teen is designed for teenagers from approximately age 12–13 when most permanent teeth have erupted. For younger children in mixed dentition, traditional braces or expanders are typically more appropriate. Compliance is critical with aligners - they must be worn 22 hours per day. Invisalign is not suitable for all bite problems; complex cases may still require traditional braces. Use our Braces Cost Estimator to compare costs.