Some smiles need more than one stage of care — and that’s where two-phase orthodontic treatment comes in. At Beach Cities Orthodontics, we specialize in providing two-phase treatment in Los Angeles, CA from our welcoming office in Torrance. This approach helps guide your child’s smile at every stage of growth, ensuring healthier, more stable long-term results.
Whether your child is just beginning their orthodontic journey or already showing signs of complex dental issues, our experienced team is here to create a personalized plan that supports proper development and lasting function.
Los Angeles Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment
Two-phase orthodontic treatment is a strategic approach to correcting bite issues, jaw development, and tooth alignment over time. It allows orthodontists to take advantage of a child’s natural growth to build a strong foundation for future treatment.
This approach is often recommended for children who show signs of significant orthodontic concerns at an early age — especially issues that may worsen without early intervention.
At Beach Cities Orthodontics, we proudly provide two-phase treatment for families in Torrance, Redondo Beach, Manhattan Beach, and throughout the greater Los Angeles area.
What Is Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment?
Two-phase orthodontic treatment is a comprehensive, two-part approach that begins during childhood and continues into adolescence. It’s designed to guide jaw growth, improve bite alignment, and create space for permanent teeth as they emerge.
This early intervention helps reduce the risk of more invasive treatment later — including tooth extractions or jaw surgery — while supporting proper function, breathing, and facial balance.
Phase One: Early Interceptive Treatment
Phase One typically begins between the ages of 6 and 10, while a child still has a mix of baby and permanent teeth. The goal is to address early issues with jaw growth, bite alignment, and spacing before they become more complex.
Phase One treatment may include:
- Limited braces or expanders
- Invisalign First clear aligners
- Space maintainers
- Habit appliances for thumb-sucking or tongue thrust
This phase usually lasts 6–12 months, depending on your child’s individual needs.
Resting Phase
Once Phase One is complete, your child enters a resting phase. During this time, active orthodontic treatment pauses while we monitor natural growth and development.
The resting phase allows:
- Permanent teeth to erupt naturally
- Jaw growth to continue normally
- Early corrections to remain stable
- Orthodontists to determine ideal timing for Phase Two
We’ll schedule periodic checkups during this phase to ensure everything is progressing as expected.
Phase Two: Full Orthodontic Treatment
Phase Two begins once most or all permanent teeth have erupted — typically during the early teen years. This phase focuses on final tooth alignment and bite correction to achieve a healthy, functional, and confident smile.
Phase Two treatment may include:
Phase Two typically lasts 12–24 months, depending on the complexity of the case.
Who Needs Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment in Los Angeles, CA?
Not every child requires two-phase orthodontic treatment — but for some, early intervention provides meaningful long-term benefits. We often recommend this approach when growth-related issues could interfere with proper dental development.
Your child may benefit from two-phase treatment if they experience:
- Crossbite, underbite, or severe overbite
- Jaw growth concerns or facial asymmetry
- Early loss of baby teeth
- Significant crowding or spacing issues
- Speech or chewing difficulties
- Thumb-sucking or tongue thrust habits
- Narrow palate or chronic mouth breathing
If you’re unsure whether early orthodontic treatment is right for your child, a free consultation can provide clarity and peace of mind.
Benefits of Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment
Two-phase treatment allows orthodontists to guide growth at the most effective times — leading to healthier outcomes and fewer complications later on.
- Healthier jaw development — Supports balanced facial growth
- Reduced treatment complexity — May prevent extractions or surgery
- Improved oral function — Enhances chewing, speech, and breathing
- More predictable results — Early guidance creates a strong foundation
- Shorter Phase Two treatment — Final alignment is often faster
- Boosted confidence — Early improvements can positively impact self-esteem
Why Choose Beach Cities Orthodontics?
Choosing the right orthodontist for your child is an important decision. At Beach Cities Orthodontics, we combine expert-led care with a compassionate, child-focused approach that supports your child’s growth every step of the way.
- Board-certified orthodontists — Dr. Kristin Evans Brothers and Dr. Peter Sinclair bring decades of experience
- Early treatment expertise — Proven success with Phase One and interceptive care
- Kid-friendly environment — Calm, welcoming, and supportive for young patients
- Advanced technology — Digital scans and precise treatment planning
- Convenient Torrance location — Serving families across the South Bay and greater Los Angeles
- No-pressure consultations — Honest guidance and clear recommendations
Ready to take the first step? Schedule your child’s free consultation today and discover if two-phase treatment is the right path for their growing smile.