Pediatric Orthodontist in Frisco, The Colony & Prosper TX
Phase 1 & Phase 2 Treatment
AAO-Recommended Age 7 Screenings
Flexible Financing & Insurance Accepted
At Elate Orthodontics, we specialize in early orthodontic treatment for children, guiding jaw development and creating the foundation for a healthy, confident smile. Dr. Baharvand and Dr. Kang are board-certified orthodontists with deep experience treating growing smiles across Frisco, The Colony, and Prosper.
What Is Pediatric Orthodontics?
Pediatric orthodontics focuses on early treatment for children to address bite problems, misalignment, crowding, and jaw development concerns before all permanent teeth have erupted. Unlike adult orthodontics, which works with a fully developed skeleton, pediatric orthodontics takes advantage of the growth period to guide the jaw into a better position, often preventing more complex treatment later.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic screening by age 7. At this age, enough permanent teeth have erupted for an orthodontist to assess jaw growth patterns, bite development, and whether any intervention would benefit the child. Most children who are seen at 7 do not need immediate treatment, but the evaluation gives parents a clear picture of what to expect and when.
Signs Your Child May Need Early Orthodontic Treatment
Not every child needs early treatment, but some problems are significantly easier to correct during active jaw growth than after it has finished.
Crowded or overlapping teeth
When there is not enough space in the arch for permanent teeth to erupt straight, early expansion can create room before the situation becomes more complex.
Bite problems
Overbite, underbite, crossbite, and open bite are easier to address during jaw growth. Waiting until the teen years can mean more extensive treatment or surgery.
Prolonged thumb-sucking or pacifier use
Habits that persist past age 4 or 5 can alter jaw shape and tooth position. Habit appliances can break the pattern before permanent damage occurs.
Early or late loss of baby teeth
Losing baby teeth too early can cause neighboring teeth to drift and block space needed for permanent teeth. Space maintainers prevent this problem.
Difficulty chewing or biting
If your child avoids certain foods or chews on one side consistently, a bite issue may be the underlying cause.
Speech difficulties
Certain speech patterns, including lisps and difficulty with specific sounds, can be related to bite or jaw position and may improve with early orthodontic treatment.
If your child is 7 or older and has not had an orthodontic screening, the best time to schedule one is now. Most evaluations take less than 30 minutes and are completely free at Elate Orthodontics.
Phase 1: Early Orthodontic Treatment (Ages 6 to 10)
Phase 1, also called interceptive orthodontics, is limited treatment done while a child still has a mix of baby and permanent teeth. The purpose is not to finish orthodontic treatment, but to correct a specific developmental problem that will be significantly harder to fix once jaw growth is complete. Phase 1 does not always eliminate the need for Phase 2 braces or aligners later, but it can make that treatment shorter, simpler, and in some cases unnecessary.
Gradually widen the upper jaw to correct a narrow arch, crossbite, or airway restriction. The palate suture remains open during growth, making expansion far more effective in children than in adults. Learn more about palate expanders.
When a baby tooth is lost early, neighboring teeth can drift into the gap and block the path of the permanent tooth. Space maintainers hold the space open until the permanent tooth is ready to erupt.
In some cases, braces or aligners on specific teeth can guide tooth eruption and prevent impaction. This is not full comprehensive treatment, but targeted correction of a developing problem.
Devices that discourage thumb-sucking or tongue thrusting, both of which push teeth out of position and affect jaw shape over time. Breaking these habits early protects ongoing jaw development.
Phase 2: Full Braces or Aligners (Ages 11 to 14)
Phase 2 is comprehensive orthodontic treatment that begins once most or all permanent teeth have erupted. It focuses on aligning all teeth precisely and perfecting the bite. Some children who had Phase 1 will still need Phase 2 to complete their treatment, though it is typically shorter and less complex as a result of the earlier intervention.
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Traditional Braces
Metal or ceramic braces for comprehensive tooth movement and bite correction. The most versatile option for complex cases. See our braces page.
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Clear Aligners
Removable clear trays for teens who want a discreet option and can commit to 22-hour daily wear. We offer Angel Aligners and Invisalign.
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Retainers After Treatment
Every Phase 2 treatment finishes with retainers to hold the result. Retention is a lifelong commitment to protect the investment made in treatment.
The Role of Palate Expanders in Early Treatment
A narrow upper jaw is one of the most common reasons for early orthodontic intervention. When the upper arch is too narrow, upper teeth can sit inside the lower teeth (crossbite), the airway can be restricted, and there may not be adequate space for all permanent teeth to erupt properly.
A palate expander works by gradually separating the two halves of the palate at a midline suture that remains open and flexible during childhood. The nasal floor shares a wall with the palate, so expansion also increases nasal airway volume. Once skeletal growth is complete in the late teens, this suture fuses and expansion becomes a surgical procedure. This is why treatment during the growth window is so much more effective, comfortable, and affordable than waiting.
Full details: Palate Expander page | Care instructions: Palate Expander Care guide
Why Choose Elate Orthodontics for Your Child?
Board-Certified Orthodontists
Dr. Baharvand is an ABO Diplomate and cover clinician in the American Journal of Orthodontics. Dr. Kang brings the same specialist training to every child they treat.
Honest Recommendations
We only recommend Phase 1 treatment when it is genuinely necessary and will produce a meaningful benefit. Many children who come in for an early screening are simply monitored until the right time, with no treatment pressure.
Affordable Family Plans
Phase 1 from $2,000 to $4,000. In-house financing from $99/month with no credit check. Most PPO insurance plans accepted. Family discounts for siblings in treatment at the same time. Use our finance calculator.
3 Convenient Locations
West Frisco (Hollyhock & Tribute) ·
North Frisco / Prosper (Windsong Ranch area) ·
The Colony (off Highway 121).
Pediatric Orthodontics Questions, Answered
What is Phase 1 orthodontic treatment?
Phase 1 is early interceptive orthodontic treatment for children between ages 6 and 10, performed while baby and permanent teeth are both present. It addresses specific developmental problems, such as jaw width, bite direction, or space for incoming teeth, that are most effectively corrected during active jaw growth. Phase 1 does not always eliminate the need for Phase 2 later, but it often makes that treatment shorter and simpler.
What is Phase 2 orthodontic treatment?
Phase 2 is comprehensive orthodontic treatment that begins once most or all permanent teeth have erupted, typically between ages 11 and 14. It uses braces or clear aligners to align all teeth precisely and correct the bite. Some children go straight to Phase 2 without ever needing Phase 1. For those who had Phase 1, Phase 2 typically proceeds faster and with less complexity.
Is Phase 1 treatment worth it?
For children with genuine developmental problems such as crossbites, jaw discrepancies, or insufficient arch space, Phase 1 can prevent the need for extractions, reduce Phase 2 treatment time, and in some cases avoid jaw surgery as an adult. We only recommend it when it will produce a meaningful benefit that cannot be achieved as effectively by waiting.
Do children get a retainer after Phase 1?
Yes. After Phase 1 treatment is complete, most children wear a retainer or space maintainer during the observation period while the remaining permanent teeth continue to erupt. This prevents teeth from shifting back before Phase 2 begins.
When should my child have their first orthodontic evaluation?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends age 7 for a first orthodontic screening. At this age, enough permanent teeth have erupted for a specialist to assess jaw development, bite patterns, and whether any intervention would be beneficial. Most children seen at 7 need only monitoring, not immediate treatment.
Is age 7 too early for braces?
For comprehensive braces, yes, most children are not ready at 7. But an evaluation at 7 can identify problems that benefit from early limited treatment. Some children do start Phase 1 appliances such as expanders or habit appliances between ages 6 and 8 when the timing creates a clear advantage.
How much does Phase 1 orthodontic treatment cost?
Phase 1 treatment at Elate Orthodontics typically ranges from $2,000 to $4,000 depending on the specific appliances needed and the duration of treatment. Monthly payment plans from $99 with low or no down payment are available. Most PPO insurance plans that cover orthodontics apply to Phase 1 treatment.
How much do braces cost for kids?
Comprehensive Phase 2 braces or aligners for children typically range from $3,000 to $5,000 at Elate Orthodontics. We offer family discounts when siblings are in treatment at the same time. Use our finance calculator to estimate a monthly payment before your visit.
Does insurance cover braces for kids?
Yes. Most PPO dental insurance plans that include an orthodontic benefit will apply toward children’s braces, aligners, and often Phase 1 appliances. We are in-network with most major providers and verify your benefits before treatment begins. Some Medicaid plans also provide orthodontic benefits for children under 18 when treatment is medically necessary.
How do families afford braces for their children?
The most common combination is using insurance benefits to reduce the total fee, then financing the remaining balance through our in-house 0% interest payment plan with no credit check. Some families also benefit from Medicaid-friendly pricing or family discounts. We work with every family individually to build a plan that fits their budget.
Do my child’s Phase 2 braces need to be metal?
No. Teens can choose from metal braces, clear ceramic braces, or clear aligners. The right option depends on the complexity of the case and the patient’s preference. We walk through the pros and cons of each at the consultation.
What is the best age for a child to get braces?
Most children begin comprehensive Phase 2 treatment between ages 11 and 14, once most permanent teeth have erupted. The exact timing depends on jaw development, the specific problem being treated, and when the child’s growth will most support efficient tooth movement. An early evaluation at age 7 lets us plan the optimal timing for each child individually.
Book Your Child’s Free Orthodontic Evaluation
An early evaluation takes less than 30 minutes and gives you a clear picture of your child’s orthodontic development, whether treatment is needed now, and what to expect in the years ahead, with no pressure and no obligation.
📍 The Colony | West Frisco | North Frisco / Prosper · 📞 972-538-4343