Phase 1 · Ages 7+
Early Treatment · The right care at the right time for growing smiles.
An evaluation at age 7 lets us guide jaw growth while it’s still easy — often saving time, money and discomfort later.
- Free exam & 3D scan
- Flexible payment plans
- Se habla español
What is early treatment?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends every child have an orthodontic screening by age 7. At that age, the first permanent molars and front teeth have usually erupted, allowing our doctors to spot developing bite, jaw and spacing issues early.
Most children don’t need treatment right away — and we’ll tell you that honestly. For many, we simply monitor growth with free check-ups. But for some, a short Phase 1 treatment while the jaw is still growing can widen a narrow palate, make room for permanent teeth and correct crossbites, often making later treatment shorter and simpler.
Dr. Gaby and Dr. Hardin are parents too. We keep early visits fun, relaxed and informative for kids, and we explain every recommendation so parents feel confident.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Gabriela Aranda, DMD, MS · Last reviewed
Why patients choose it
Benefits of Early Treatment
Guide jaw growth
Until around age nine the upper jaw can be widened before growth plates fuse — much harder to do later.
Make room for adult teeth
Creating space early can reduce crowding and the need for extractions in the future.
Prevent problems
Correcting crossbites and protruding teeth lowers the risk of chipped teeth, TMJ issues and uneven wear.
Boost confidence
Addressing noticeable issues early helps kids feel great about their smiles during formative years.
How it works
Your path to a new smile
- 1
Free screening
A quick, friendly exam and X-ray review to evaluate development.
- 2
Watch or treat
We either monitor growth with free check-ups or recommend a short Phase 1.
- 3
Phase 1 care
Expanders, partial braces or Invisalign First address specific issues.
- 4
Resting period
We monitor as permanent teeth come in and decide if Phase 2 is needed.
Ideal for
- Children ages 6–10
- Crossbites or narrow palates
- Severe crowding
- Protruding front teeth
- Thumb-sucking habits
Why age 7?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a screening by age 7. By then the first adult molars have erupted, letting us evaluate how the bite and jaws are developing from every side.
Easier while growing
Until around age nine, the upper jaw can be widened before growth plates fuse — something far more difficult in adults. Early care can reduce crowding, gaps and crooked permanent teeth.
What we help prevent
Misaligned teeth can lead to TMJ issues and uneven bites that cause facial pain, headaches, difficulty chewing, breathing issues during sleep, and chipped or cracked teeth.
Early Treatment results
Drag the slider to see the difference.
Every smile is different. At your free exam we'll show you a 3D preview of your own projected result before you commit.
Mila started with us as a child — a great example of how guiding growth early sets up a healthy, confident teen smile.
Find out if Early Treatment is right for you — free.
Exam, digital scan, treatment plan and cost estimate. No obligation.
Ask Harmony · Start your smile journey here
Questions about Early Treatment? Ask Harmony.
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Start your smile journey here
Hi there! Every great smile starts with a question. Ask me about Invisalign, braces, care for kids, our four offices or your free exam.
AI assistant for general information only, not medical advice. For urgent issues, call your office.
FAQ
Early Treatment questions, answered
Does my 7-year-old really need to see an orthodontist?
A screening at 7 is recommended so problems can be caught early. Most kids won’t need treatment yet, and the screening at Harmony is free.
What is Phase 1 orthodontic treatment?
Phase 1 is a short, targeted treatment done while baby teeth are still present to correct specific issues like crossbites or crowding and guide jaw growth.
Will my child still need braces later?
Sometimes a second phase is needed once all permanent teeth arrive, but it is often shorter and simpler because of early treatment.
What is Invisalign First?
Invisalign First is a clear aligner system designed for children ages 6–10 that can expand arches and align teeth without traditional expanders or brackets.
Available at all four offices
Early Treatment near you
Early Treatment articles
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Why Your Child Should See an Orthodontist by Age 7
Learn why the American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic screening by age 7 and what happens at a free children’s screening at Harmony Orthodontics.
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Palatal Expanders: A Parent’s Guide
What a palatal expander is, why orthodontists recommend it, how it feels and how long it takes — answers for parents in Gresham, Sandy, Camas and Tualatin.
Ready to see what your smile could look like?
Your first exam is free — including a full evaluation and a clear plan, cost and timeline.