Skip to content 
Understanding Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment
Orthodontic care isn't always a one-time process—especially for growing children. In some cases, treating orthodontic issues early, before all the permanent teeth have come in, can prevent more serious problems later on. That’s where two-phase treatment comes in.
Two-phase treatment is a specialized orthodontic approach designed to guide the development of a child’s jaw and teeth as they grow. It involves two distinct stages of treatment, typically beginning in childhood and finishing in the early teen years.
If your child has been recommended for two-phase treatment, or you're simply curious about what it means, this guide will walk you through how it works, who needs it, and why it can make a lasting difference.
What Are the Two Phases?
Phase One — Early Intervention
Phase One treatment usually begins between ages 6 and 10, while a child still has a mix of baby and permanent teeth. The goal is to address developmental issues early before they become more complicated.
During Phase One, an orthodontist may use appliances such as expanders, space maintainers, or limited braces to:
- Guide jaw growth
- Create space for incoming permanent teeth
- Correct harmful habits (like thumb sucking)
- Improve bite alignment
- Minimize the risk of tooth impaction
This early intervention can help prevent more invasive procedures down the road, like tooth extractions or jaw surgery.
Phase Two — Comprehensive Alignment
Phase Two usually begins once most or all of the permanent teeth have erupted—typically between ages 11 and 13. This stage focuses on aligning the teeth for proper function and aesthetics.
Treatment during Phase Two often involves full braces or clear aligners to:
- Correct final tooth positions
- Improve the bite and jaw function
- Ensure long-term stability of the results
By starting with a strong foundation in Phase One, Phase Two tends to be shorter and more effective.
Why Consider Two-Phase Treatment?
While not every child needs two-phase treatment, it can offer significant advantages when early issues are present. Your orthodontist may recommend this approach to:
- Intercept severe crowding or spacing issues
- Address jaw growth problems or crossbites
- Create room for unerupted permanent teeth
- Avoid tooth extractions or surgical procedures
- Guide facial symmetry and healthy oral development
In these cases, starting early can save time, money, and discomfort later on—and help ensure the best outcome for your child’s smile.
Signs Your Child May Benefit from Two-Phase Treatment
Not sure if two-phase treatment is right for your child? Here are some common signs and conditions that might indicate a need for early orthodontic evaluation:
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Difficulty biting or chewing
- Crowded or misplaced teeth
- Jaws that shift or make sounds
- Speech difficulties
- Thumb or finger sucking after age 5
- A visibly uneven bite or facial imbalance
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children have their first orthodontic check-up by age 7. This allows your orthodontist to spot potential issues early—even if treatment isn’t needed right away.
What Are the Benefits of Two-Phase Treatment?
Two-phase treatment offers several key advantages over waiting until all permanent teeth come in:
- Prevents severe problems later — Early guidance reduces the need for extractions or surgery
- Improves overall facial balance — Early jaw correction can lead to a more symmetrical, attractive profile
- Boosts confidence at a young age — Early improvements can reduce teasing or self-consciousness
- Shortens treatment time in Phase Two — Starting early can streamline the second phase of treatment
- Supports better long-term results — A guided, phased approach often leads to more stable outcomes
Is Two-Phase Treatment Right for Every Child?
No. Many children can wait until their teen years to begin orthodontic treatment and still achieve great results with a single phase of braces or aligners.
That’s why a professional evaluation is so important. A qualified orthodontist will take digital scans, x-rays, and growth assessments to determine whether early treatment is necessary—or if it's better to monitor your child’s development until later.
Making the Right Choice for Your Child’s Smile
Two-phase treatment isn’t about rushing into braces early—it’s about planning ahead for the best possible results. If your child has early orthodontic needs, starting treatment in stages can make their overall experience easier, more efficient, and more comfortable.
At Albrechtsen & Fanelli Orthodontics, we take a personalized, growth-focused approach to every child’s smile. Our experienced team uses digital technology and kid-friendly care to evaluate your child’s needs and recommend a plan that supports both their current and future smile.
Whether your child needs early intervention or is ready to start full braces, we’re here to guide every phase of the process with comfort, transparency, and confidence. Schedule a free consultation at our Ogden office today to learn more about whether two-phase treatment is the right fit for your child.