What is Early Treatment (7 & Up)?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends every child see an orthodontist by age 7. Early detection does not always mean early treatment — but when it is needed, Phase 1 treatment such as arch expansion can make room for adult teeth and guide jaw growth, often preventing more costly care or jaw surgery later.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Steven H. Scott, DDS, MS · Updated October 2026
What to expect, step by step
- Step 1
Free age-7 evaluation
We check bite, jaw growth and how adult teeth are coming in.
- Step 2
Monitor or treat
Many kids just need growth check-ins. Some benefit from Phase 1.
- Step 3
Phase 1
Expanders or limited braces fix problems while the jaw is still growing.
- Step 4
Resting period
We monitor as the remaining adult teeth erupt.
- Step 5
Phase 2
Braces or Invisalign fine-tune the final bite, usually in the teen years.
How it compares
| Early (two-phase) | Wait until teens | |
|---|---|---|
| Jaw growth guidance | Yes | Limited |
| Room for adult teeth | Created early | May need extractions |
| Risk of later surgery | Often reduced | Higher for severe bites |
| Phase 2 length | Often shorter | Full treatment |
Cost and financing
Our team will go over the cost of your treatment and every payment option before you start. We accept most major credit cards and insurance plans, offer interest-free in-house financing, low down payments and monthly plans, and Medi-Cal/Denti-Cal is accepted — come in for an evaluation to see if treatment could be covered.
- Free consultation
- Interest-free in-house financing
- Most insurance accepted
- Medi-Cal / Denti-Cal accepted
Find out if Early Treatment (7 & Up) is right for you.
Free evaluations for kids 7+, interest-free payment plans and seven offices across the Sacramento Valley.
Early Treatment (7 & Up) FAQs
Why age 7?
By age 7, the first adult molars and incisors have usually come in, so an orthodontist can spot crossbites, crowding and jaw issues early.
Does my child need braces at 7?
Usually not. Most kids just need periodic check-ins. We only recommend Phase 1 when it clearly helps.
Is the evaluation really free?
Yes. The early evaluation for kids is free.
What is two-phase treatment?
Phase 1 guides jaw growth and makes room for teeth; Phase 2 straightens the adult teeth once they are in.
What problems does early treatment fix?
Crossbites, severe crowding, underbites, open bites, protruding teeth and habits like thumb sucking.
Do I need a referral from our dentist?
No referral is needed. You can book directly.
Ask Legendary about Early Treatment (7 & Up)
Your first visit is a free consultation.
Free evaluations for kids 7+, interest-free payment plans and seven offices across the Sacramento Valley.