Early Orthodontics in Richmond, Midlothian, Chesterfield, VA and surrounding counties.

Gentle, proactive orthodontic care designed to guide growing smiles

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Learn About Phase I Orthodontics

WHAT IS EARLY ORTHODONTICS (PHASE I)?

Young preteen girl in glasses wearing braces smiles at the camera on a summer day.
  • Proactive
  • Preventive
  • Personalized

Early orthodontics — also known as Phase I orthodontics or children’s orthodontics — focuses on identifying and addressing orthodontic issues before all permanent teeth have come in.

By guiding jaw growth and tooth development early, we can often simplify or even prevent more complex orthodontic treatment later on.

At Dabney Orthodontics, early orthodontic care is always gentle, thoughtful, and customized to each child’s development.

WHEN SHOULD A CHILD FIRST SEE AN ORTHODONTIST?

According to the American Association of Orthodontists,
children should have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7.

At this age, we can identify concerns while the jaw and facial structures are still developing — when treatment is often easier and more effective.

Early orthodontic evaluations can help:

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    Expand a narrow upper jaw

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    Create space for incoming adult teeth

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    Hold space for permanent teeth

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    Correct jaw alignment issues

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    Support airway development for mouth breathers
    or children with breathing concerns

Part of orthodontist examining child's teeth in dentist's office

WHY START ORTHODONTIC CARE SO YOUNG?

While orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age, early intervention can make treatment simpler and less invasive.

For example:

  • Jaw expansion is much easier while a child is still growing and may prevent the need for surgery later
  • Creating space early can reduce or eliminate the need for tooth extractions
  • Proper jaw guidance can improve bite function and facial balance

Another major benefit of early orthodontic care is long-term monitoring. When we follow your child’s development over time, we gain valuable insight into how their teeth and jaws are progressing — allowing for more precise treatment planning if care becomes necessary later. Early visits also help children feel comfortable with Dr. Dabney and our team, making orthodontic care feel familiar rather than intimidating.

HOW EARLY ORTHODONTICS WORKS

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Initial Evaluation

We assess your child’s teeth, jaw growth, and bite development during a complimentary exam.

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Growth Monitoring

If treatment isn’t needed right away, we monitor development with periodic check-ins.

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Virtually InvisPhase I Treatment (If Needed)ible Design

When appropriate, we use gentle orthodontic appliances to guide jaw growth and tooth positioning.

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Future Planning

Early care often simplifies or shortens future orthodontic treatment — and sometimes eliminates the need altogether.

EARLY ORTHODONTICS & AIRWAY DEVELOPMENT

In some children, orthodontic issues are connected to
airway concerns, mouth breathing, or improper jaw development.

Early orthodontic treatment can:

  • Encourage proper jaw growth
  • Support healthier breathing patterns
  • Improve oral posture and function

Every child is different, and our doctors take a whole-child approach when evaluating early orthodontic needs.

In Elementary School Class: Portrait of a Brilliant Black Girl with Braces Writes in Exercise Notebook, Smiles. Junior Classroom with Diverse Group of Children Learning New Stuff

EARLY ORTHODONTICS CAN BE EASIER ON YOUR BUDGET

Correcting orthodontic issues earlier in life is often more cost-effective and less invasive.

Tracking your child’s development also gives you time to:

  • Understand potential future treatment needs
  • Plan ahead financially
  • Make informed decisions without pressure

At Dabney Orthodontics:

  • We provide complimentary exams for younger patients until treatment is necessary
  • If treatment is not recommended, there is no cost
  • We coordinate closely with your child’s dentist to ensure the best care

EARLY ORTHODONTICS CAN BE EASIER ON YOUR BUDGET

Correcting orthodontic issues earlier in life is often more cost-effective and less invasive.

Tracking your child’s development also gives you time to:

  • Understand potential future treatment needs
  • Plan ahead financially
  • Make informed decisions without pressure

At Dabney Orthodontics:

  • We provide complimentary exams for younger patients until treatment is necessary
  • If treatment is never needed, there is no cost
  • We coordinate closely with your child’s dentist to ensure the best care

WHO IS A CANDIDATE FOR EARLY ORTHODONTICS?

Early orthodontics may be recommended for children who:

  • Are around age 7 or older
  • Have crowding or spacing concerns
  • Show signs of jaw misalignment
  • Have early or late loss of baby teeth
  • Breathe primarily through the mouth

A complimentary evaluation helps determine the best path forward.

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WHO IS A CANDIDATE FOR EARLY ORTHODONTICS?

Early orthodontics may be recommended for children who:

  • Are around age 7 or older
  • Have crowding or spacing concerns
  • Show signs of jaw misalignment
  • Have early or late loss of baby teeth
  • Breathe primarily through the mouth

A complimentary evaluation helps determine the best path forward.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Does every child need early orthodontic treatment?
Will my child still need braces later?
Is early orthodontic treatment uncomfortable?
How much does early orthodontics cost?
Where can my child receive early orthodontic care in Virginia?

START YOUR CHILD’S ORTHODONTIC JOURNEY TODAY

At Dabney Orthodontics, we’re proud to partner with families to safeguard and promote children’s oral health — gently, proactively, and thoughtfully.

📍 Serving Richmond, Midlothian, Chesterfield, and surrounding counties.

📅 Schedule your child’s complimentary orthodontic evaluation today and take the first step toward a healthy, confident smile.

Book a Complimentary Child Evaluation →