Why Dr. Sanders Chose Phase I Orthodontics for His Own Daughter

Parents often ask why we sometimes recommend braces or expanders before all of a child’s permanent teeth have grown in. At Sanders Orthodontics, we call this Phase I treatment—and to show you why it matters, I’ll share a personal story.

When my daughter Anna was younger, I noticed her dental arches were narrow and she already had significant crowding. If we had waited until all of her adult teeth erupted, there would have been a high risk of teeth coming in crooked, rotated, or even impacted (stuck under the gums).

Instead, I recommended for her exactly what I recommend for my patients:

• Expansion to gently widen the arches and create space

• Phase I braces to help guide the teeth and bite into a healthier position

By treating early, Anna’s permanent teeth will have room to grow in properly, and when it’s time for her Phase II treatment later on, it will be much simpler, shorter, and less invasive.

Here’s why Phase I orthodontics can be so valuable:

1. Creates Space for Permanent Teeth
   Expansion ensures adult teeth come in where they’re supposed to, reducing crowding and the need for extractions.

2. Takes Advantage of Growth
   During childhood, we can guide jaw development while bones are still growing—something we can’t do as effectively later.

3. Reduces Complexity Later
   By solving big issues early, Phase I often makes full braces or aligners in the teen years quicker and easier.

4. Builds Confidence Early
   Even though this stage isn’t about the “final smile,” kids often notice their teeth look better and feel more comfortable right away.

At Sanders Orthodontics, you can rest assured that we recommend the same level of care for your family that I provide for my own. Anna’s Phase I treatment is proof—when I see a need, I act early to give my kids the healthiest, happiest smile possible. And I’ll do the same for yours.

If you think your child may benefit from early orthodontics, schedule a complimentary consultation. We’d love to create the right plan for their smile’s future.