Phase 1 Orthodontics in Miramar for Ages 6 to 10
Phase 1 orthodontics is not about “putting braces on little kids.” It is about using a short, gentle window of treatment between ages 6 and 10 to guide jaw growth, protect airway and sleep, and make the teen years smoother and less stressful for everyone.
As a parent, you do not need to be an orthodontic expert. You just need to know this: choosing the right specialist early can be the difference between a simple, interceptive plan now and complex jaw surgery later. At SMILE-FX® Orthodontic Studio in Miramar, every child’s plan is personally designed and overseen by Dr Tracy Liang, Board Certified Orthodontic Specialist and Co Founder, so you are never guessing who is really in charge of your child’s smile.
What Is Phase 1 Orthodontics
Phase 1 orthodontics (also called interceptive orthodontics) is treatment that happens typically between ages 6 and 10, while your child still has baby teeth and a mix of adult teeth coming in. The goal is not a “perfect Hollywood smile” yet. The goals are:
- Create enough space for incoming adult teeth
- Guide jaw growth while the bones are still flexible
- Improve the bite so teeth fit together properly
- Support airway and sleep for better long term health
- Reduce the chance of extractions or jaw surgery later
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child see an orthodontic specialist by age 7. Not because every 7 year old needs treatment, but because this is the age where we can clearly see how the jaws and bite are developing and whether a simple early step can prevent a bigger problem later.
Why Age 7 Matters (Without Fear Tactics)
Think of age 7 as a “growth checkpoint,” not a deadline. At this age:
- Your child usually has a mix of baby and adult teeth, so we can see spacing and crowding patterns
- Crossbites, underbites, deep bites, and open bites can be identified early
- We can spot signs of mouth breathing or airway issues connected to the bite
Many kids we see at 7 or 8 simply need monitoring, not braces. At SMILE-FX® we are very open about this. If your child does not need treatment, we say so clearly and place them in our Growth & Watch Program with complimentary periodic check ins. This is one of the biggest trust builders for families, because you are never being “sold” on treatment they do not need.
When Does A Child Really Need Phase 1 Treatment
Here are some common signs parents should watch for between ages 6 and 10 that may indicate Phase 1 orthodontics could help:
- Crowding or teeth “fighting for space” even at a young age
- Front teeth that stick out significantly
- Crossbite (upper teeth biting inside the lower teeth)
- Underbite (lower teeth or jaw in front of the upper)
- Open bite (front teeth not touching when the back teeth bite together)
- Persistent thumb or finger sucking beyond age 5 to 6
- Mouth breathing, snoring, restless sleep, or daytime fatigue
- Speech concerns that may relate to tooth or jaw position
- Jaws that seem too small or too narrow for the teeth
If you see any of these, it does not mean your child needs braces tomorrow. It is a signal to have a Board Certified Orthodontic Specialist evaluate their growth and map out a plan. That is exactly what we do for families from Miramar and across Broward County every day.
Why Phase 1 With SMILE-FX® Is Different
Not all “kids braces” are the same. At SMILE-FX® every Phase 1 plan combines medical rigor, growth science, and cutting edge technology to protect your child’s health today and in the future.
| Traditional Approach | SMILE-FX® Phase 1 Approach |
|---|---|
| Often supervised by general dentists | Every plan overseen by Dr Tracy Liang, Board Certified Orthodontic Specialist and Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics |
| Focus mainly on straightening visible teeth | Focus on esthetics, jaw growth, airway health, and long term function |
| One size fits all appliances | Custom 3D printed appliances, aligners, and braces designed for each child |
| Frequent in office visits | Remote monitoring with 40 percent fewer visits for busy families |
| Standard brackets and wires | FX Ai Braces (tm) with AI powered planning for more precise tooth movement |
Dr Tracy Liang is widely recognized in South Florida for her expertise in:
- Interceptive growth guidance for ages 6 to 10
- Airway and sleep health using 3D CBCT imaging
- Complex cases, including surgical orthodontics, impactions, and retreatment
- Advanced esthetic options such as lingual braces, custom 3D printed aligners, and 3D printed braces
She is a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics, a credential held by only about 30 percent of orthodontists nationwide, and a Credentialed Fellow of the International Academy for Dental Facial Esthetics, a distinction held by less than 1 percent of orthodontists in the United States. That means your child’s Phase 1 plan is built around the highest standards of safety, evidence, and precision.
How We Use Technology To Make Early Treatment Easier
Kids today are tech savvy. SMILE-FX® meets them where they are by turning advanced orthodontic technology into a comfort tool, not a stressor.
- Remote Monitoring lets us track tooth movement from home, so you can have fewer in office visits without sacrificing results.
- In house 3D printing means custom appliances and aligners are made quickly and tuned precisely to your child’s needs.
- AI treatment planning helps our doctors simulate tooth and jaw changes on screen before starting, so the plan is clear and predictable.
- Low dose digital X rays and CBCT are used only when appropriate, with simple, parent friendly explanations every step of the way.
SMILE-FX® has been recognized as Best Clear Aligner Provider 2025 and for the Best Orthodontic Experience in South Florida 2025, along with the Evergreen Award for scaling high tech care without losing the personal touch. For you, that means your child gets the benefits of innovation plus the warmth of a small, relationship driven practice.
What Your Child’s First Phase 1 Visit Looks Like
Walking into an orthodontic office for the first time can be a big deal for a 7 year old. Our goal is simple: help your child leave saying, “That was easy.”
Here is what typically happens at a first visit at SMILE-FX® Orthodontic Studio in Miramar:
- Welcome & Tour
Our team greets you by name, not a number. Kids are invited to explore our Studio environment with games, snacks, and our VIP Tech Suite. This is not a sterile clinic. It is a space designed to feel safe and fun. - Comfort Setup
If your child is anxious, we offer tools like weighted blankets, noise canceling headphones, their favorite streaming shows, or even VR immersion to distract and relax them. - Photos & Scan
We use a small digital camera and an optical scanner that glides over the teeth. No sticky molds. No goopy impressions. Kids usually say the scanner “feels like a toothbrush.” - Low Dose X rays / CBCT If Needed
Only when clinically appropriate, we may take low dose digital X rays or a CBCT image. We explain everything in child and parent friendly language so it never feels scary or mysterious. - Doctor Consultation
You will sit down with Dr Liang or one of our Board Certified orthodontists while your child is right there with you. We review the images together and walk you through what we see, what is normal, and what we may want to guide. - Clear Plan Or “Watch & Grow”
If Phase 1 treatment is recommended, we explain what that looks like, how long it should last, and what outcomes we are aiming for. If treatment is not needed yet, we place your child on a growth monitoring schedule and recheck at comfortable intervals. - Time & Questions
We always leave time for questions: about school schedules, sports, comfort, and cost. You are never rushed.
When Treatment Is Not Needed Yet
One of the biggest reasons Broward families trust SMILE-FX® is that we are very direct when no early treatment is needed. Sometimes the best plan is:
- Wait for more adult teeth to erupt
- Monitor growth every 6 to 12 months
- Focus on habits like breathing through the nose and discontinuing thumb sucking
We document everything so you know we are making a thoughtful decision, not a rushed one. Parents often tell us, “We came in expecting to be pushed into braces, and instead we got real guidance and peace of mind.” That is the standard we hold ourselves to.
Why Families From Miramar And Across Broward Choose SMILE-FX®
Although our Studio is based in Miramar, we regularly see children and teens from Pembroke Pines, Hollywood, Weston, Cooper City, Davie, Fort Lauderdale and beyond. Parents are willing to drive because:
- We offer only specialist level care from Board Certified orthodontists, never general dentists doing braces on the side
- We collaborate closely with top pediatric dentists across South Florida
- Our tech driven approach means fewer total visits, so the drive is worth it
- We offer flexible, pediatric friendly scheduling options around school and activities
- Our Miramar location is easily accessible from major Broward highways, with simple directions from neighboring cities
If you are coming from Pembroke Pines, Hollywood, Davie, Cooper City, Weston, or Fort Lauderdale, our team is happy to help you plan the most convenient route and appointment times. Think of SMILE-FX® as a regional resource for pediatric orthodontics, not just a neighborhood office.
How Much Does Phase 1 Treatment Cost
Every child is different, so there is no single “price for Phase 1.” However, we know cost matters for families. At SMILE-FX® we provide:
- Transparent, written treatment options before anything begins
- Plans with monthly payments as low as an amount that fits many family budgets
- 0 downpayment options for qualified patients
- 0 percent interest options available for many plans
- Help maximizing orthodontic insurance benefits and HSA or FSA funds
We never pressure you to choose the most expensive option. Our job is to help you understand what will be most effective for your child and then build a financial plan that respects your family.
Internal Links For Parents Who Want To Learn More
If you are still gathering information, these pages on our site are especially helpful for parents:
- Why specialist led care matters for kids: Board Certified Specialist
- What makes our Studio different from other offices: How We’re Different
- Our technology for precise, comfortable treatment: Cutting Edge Technology
- Braces options for kids and teens: Braces
- Clear aligner options designed in house: Clear Aligners
- Miramar location and directions: Orthodontist in Miramar
Phase 1 Orthodontics FAQs For Parents
Does every child need Phase 1 treatment at age 7
No. Age 7 is the ideal time for an evaluation, not a guarantee of treatment. Many children we see at 7 or 8 do not need Phase 1 yet. Instead, we monitor growth and plan for the right timing. When we recommend Phase 1, it is because we see a clear benefit in guiding growth now rather than waiting.
How long does Phase 1 treatment usually last
Most Phase 1 treatments last between 9 and 18 months, depending on your child’s goals and specific needs. Because we use remote monitoring, 3D printed appliances, and AI supported planning, we can often accomplish more in less time and with fewer in office visits than older methods.
Will my child still need braces as a teen
Many children will still need a shorter, more focused Phase 2 treatment in the teen years to align all the adult teeth perfectly. The goal of Phase 1 is to make Phase 2 faster, simpler, and less invasive. In some mild cases, Phase 1 may reduce or even remove the need for extensive teen treatment.
Is Phase 1 uncomfortable for kids
Any orthodontic treatment comes with a short adjustment period, but we design our plans to be as gentle and kid friendly as possible. We use smooth appliances, modern wires, custom braces, and clear communication so children know what to expect. Our Studio environment, comfort tools, and experienced team help kids adapt quickly.
What if my child is nervous about doctors
This is very normal, especially around age 6 to 10. Our team works with children all day, and we are skilled at meeting them at their level. From VR, games, and snacks to simple, honest explanations, we focus on trust first and treatment second. Many anxious kids end up looking forward to their visits.
Can my child play sports with Phase 1 braces or appliances
Yes. We routinely treat kids who play soccer, basketball, football, dance, and more. We help you choose options that fit your child’s lifestyle and provide appropriate mouthguards when needed. We also schedule visits around school and activities as much as possible.
How is SMILE-FX® different from a general dentist who offers braces
General dentists are experts in overall dental health. Orthodontists complete additional years of specialized training focused entirely on moving teeth and guiding jaw growth. At SMILE-FX® your child sees only orthodontic specialists, including Board Certified doctors, using advanced imaging and planning tools designed for growth guidance, not just straightening a few teeth.
Is clear aligner treatment an option in Phase 1
In select cases, yes. SMILE-FX® is a top rated provider of clear aligners for kids and teens and a PINK Diamond OrthoFX provider, which reflects extensive experience with these systems. For Phase 1, we carefully evaluate whether aligners, braces, or a combination will best support jaw development and tooth positioning.
What if we live in Pembroke Pines, Weston, Davie, Cooper City, Hollywood, or Fort Lauderdale
We see families from across Broward and South Florida every day. With remote monitoring and fewer required visits, many parents find that driving a little further for higher level care is absolutely worth it. Our Miramar location is central and easy to reach from these cities, and we are used to coordinating care around traffic and school schedules.
How do we get started
You can schedule a visit in the way that is easiest for you: call our Miramar Studio, submit a virtual consult through our Virtual Consult page, or request an appointment through our Contact Us page. We also offer a quick Smile Quiz that helps you understand whether it may be time for an evaluation.
Book A Complimentary Orthodontic Evaluation
If your child is between ages 6 and 10 and you are wondering whether they might need early orthodontic treatment, you do not have to guess. Let our pediatric focused orthodontic team at SMILE-FX® Orthodontic Studio in Miramar give you clear answers, a growth roadmap, and peace of mind.
Call our Miramar Studio or visit our website to book your free orthodontic consultation today. We proudly serve families from Miramar, Pembroke Pines, Hollywood, Weston, Cooper City, Davie, Fort Lauderdale, and across Broward and South Florida.