Orthodontic care doesn’t always start with braces — sometimes, it begins with careful guidance during a child’s early years. At Sakowitz Smiles, we offer two-phase orthodontic treatment in Orlando, FL, to help children achieve healthy, confident smiles by addressing bite and jaw development before all permanent teeth arrive.
This proactive approach allows us to create space, prevent future complications, and simplify treatment later in life.
Orlando Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment
Serving families in Lake Nona, Dr. Phillips, and Winter Garden, Sakowitz Smiles provides two-phase treatment for children showing early signs of orthodontic concerns. Unlike traditional treatment, which begins in the teen years, two-phase treatment allows us to start earlier when it can make the biggest difference.
This approach combines two distinct stages of care, spaced out over time, and is personalized based on your child’s unique growth and dental development.
What Is Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment?
Two-phase treatment is a specialized approach to orthodontics that begins when a child still has a mix of baby and permanent teeth. The goal is to take advantage of the natural growth process to address underlying issues — such as jaw alignment, crowding, or bite problems — early on.
This method includes:
- Phase One — Early interceptive treatment
- Resting Phase — A break that allows natural growth
- Phase Two — Full orthodontic treatment after permanent teeth erupt
Together, these stages work to reduce the complexity and length of future treatment while improving long-term results.
Phase One: Early Interceptive Treatment
The first phase typically starts between ages 6 and 9, when children still have most of their baby teeth. At this age, we can:
- Guide jaw growth and alignment
- Create space for incoming permanent teeth
- Correct harmful habits (thumb-sucking, tongue thrusting)
- Improve bite function and facial balance
- Reduce the need for tooth extractions later
Treatment during this phase may include partial braces, expanders, or other appliances, depending on your child’s needs.
Resting Phase
After Phase One, your child enters a resting period. No active orthodontic treatment occurs during this time, but our team will monitor growth and tooth eruption with regular checkups.
The purpose of this phase is to:
- Allow permanent teeth to come in naturally
- Maintain space created during Phase One
- Track jaw and facial development
During this time, we evaluate whether full orthodontic treatment will be necessary and when to begin it.
Phase Two: Full Orthodontic Treatment
Phase Two usually begins between ages 11 and 13, once all or most permanent teeth have erupted. This stage focuses on refining tooth alignment and bite correction using full braces or aligners.
The goals of Phase Two include:
- Achieving ideal tooth position and bite
- Improving overall aesthetics and function
- Ensuring long-term stability of the results
Because Phase One has already addressed foundational issues, Phase Two treatment is often shorter, more efficient, and more predictable.
Who Needs Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment in Orlando, FL?
Not every child will require two-phase treatment — but for some, starting early can make a major difference. We typically recommend an evaluation if your child shows signs of:
- Jaw misalignment or facial asymmetry
- Crowded or severely spaced teeth
- Difficulty chewing or speaking clearly
- Crossbite, underbite, or overbite
- Thumb-sucking or tongue thrust habits
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children see an orthodontist by age 7. This allows us to evaluate growth patterns and determine whether early treatment could be beneficial.
At Sakowitz Smiles, we offer free consultations so families can understand their options and make informed decisions.
Benefits of Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment
Two-phase treatment provides unique benefits by working with — rather than against — a child’s natural development. Advantages include:
- Early correction of skeletal or jaw discrepancies
- Prevention of more invasive treatment later on
- Reduced risk of trauma from protruding teeth
- Improved appearance, speech, and oral habits
- Increased space for permanent teeth
- Shorter and more comfortable second phase
By starting early, we lay the foundation for long-term dental health and a more confident, balanced smile.
Why Choose Sakowitz Smiles?
At Sakowitz Smiles, we believe that early intervention can transform a child’s future — and we’re proud to be a trusted provider of two-phase orthodontic care in Orlando.
Here’s why families choose us:
- Expert pediatric and orthodontic knowledge — Dr. Jason Sakowitz is a board-certified orthodontist with experience guiding children through early care.
- Advanced diagnostics — We use modern imaging and growth tracking tools to plan safe, personalized treatment.
- Kid-friendly environment — Our offices are designed to make children feel at ease, with caring staff and flexible scheduling.
- Transparent communication — We partner closely with parents to ensure you’re informed, supported, and confident throughout the process.
- Convenient locations — With three Orlando-area offices, we make early orthodontic care accessible for families throughout Central Florida.
Early orthodontic care is a journey — and we’re here to make every step of it positive and productive.
Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment FAQs for Orlando Families
Q: What age should my child start two-phase treatment?
A: Phase One typically starts between ages 6 and 9. We recommend scheduling your child’s first orthodontic evaluation around age 7.
Q: How do I know if my child needs early treatment?
A: Our orthodontist will evaluate your child’s teeth, bite, and jaw development during the consultation. Not every child needs two-phase care, but an early evaluation ensures you’re not missing the opportunity.
Q: Will my child still need braces later?
A: Yes, most children still require Phase Two treatment. However, Phase One can simplify the second stage and shorten overall treatment time.
Q: Is two-phase treatment more expensive?
A: Not necessarily. Early treatment may reduce the need for extractions or complex procedures later, potentially lowering the total cost of care.
Q: Does insurance cover two-phase orthodontics?
A: Many insurance plans cover orthodontic treatment in phases. Our team will help you understand your benefits and financing options.
Schedule Your Child’s Free Two-Phase Consultation in Orlando, FL
Early care today can mean fewer problems tomorrow. At Sakowitz Smiles, we specialize in guiding children through healthy growth with two-phase orthodontic treatment tailored to their needs.
Book your child’s free consultation today at our Lake Nona, Dr. Phillips, or Winter Garden office — and let us help you build a confident, healthy smile that lasts a lifetime.