Early Orthodontics (Phase 1) in Bastrop, TX
Most parents assume orthodontic care begins in the teen years, but the window for the most effective treatment often opens much earlier. Between the ages of 6 and 10, a child’s jaw is still developing, which means bite issues, crowding, and alignment problems are far more responsive to guidance than they will be once growth slows. Waiting too long can turn a straightforward correction into a more involved process, and in some cases lead to the need for tooth extractions or corrective procedures down the road.
At Spring St. Dental in Bastrop, our team offers Phase 1 early orthodontic treatment tailored to growing children, helping parents get ahead of problems before they become more complex. Whether your child has a crossbite, protruding front teeth, or habits like thumb-sucking that are affecting jaw development, early intervention can simplify or even reduce the need for teen orthodontics later on. Our doctors take a research-backed, individualized approach so that every recommendation is grounded in what’s actually best for your child’s growth.
What Phase 1 Orthodontic Treatment Is
Phase 1 orthodontics, also called interceptive orthodontics, is early treatment that takes place while a child still has a mix of baby and permanent teeth. The goal is not to fully complete orthodontic care at this stage. Rather, it’s to identify and correct developing problems while the jaw is still pliable and responsive to gentle guidance.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child receive their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. As the AAO explains, early evaluations can guide jaw growth, create room for incoming teeth, and reduce the complexity of future treatment. At Spring St. Dental, we follow this same philosophy: catching problems during the growth phase means we can address them more efficiently and with less disruption to your child’s overall dental development.
Signs Your Child May Need Phase 1 Treatment
If you notice any of these in your child, an evaluation at our Bastrop office can provide clarity on whether early treatment is beneficial or if monitoring over time is the right path forward. Not every evaluation results in immediate treatment.
Flexible Payment Options for Your Dental Care
Quality dentistry shouldn’t be limited by insurance restrictions. We accept all major dental insurance and offer multiple financing solutions to fit your budget.
- Out-of-network benefits accepted—we handle the paperwork
- Plan for Health membership: no maximums, no waiting periods
- CareCredit and Alpheon financing with flexible terms
- Transparent cost estimates before treatment begins
How Phase 1 Treatment Works
Benefits of Early Orthodontic Intervention
Addressing orthodontic concerns during the growth phase offers meaningful advantages compared to waiting. When jaw bones are still developing, corrections can be made more efficiently and often with less involvement than would be required later. Protruding front teeth carry a higher risk of injury during childhood activities — repositioning them early reduces that risk significantly. Phase 1 treatment can also simplify Phase 2 treatment, and in some cases eliminates the need for it altogether. When Phase 2 does occur, clear braces offer a discreet option for older children and teens. Following any orthodontic treatment, retainers play a key role in maintaining the results your child achieves.
Impact on Phase 2 Treatment
Phase 1 treatment typically lasts between nine and twelve months, and outcomes vary by child. Some children experience a significantly simplified Phase 2 as a result. Others may avoid Phase 2 treatment entirely. In either case, the earlier the evaluation, the more options families have. Our team helps parents understand exactly what to expect based on their child’s specific development so there are no surprises along the way.
When Phase 2 does occur, it usually takes place during the teen years after all permanent teeth have come in. Early Phase 1 intervention can mean less time in full braces and a smoother overall treatment path for your child.
What to Expect at Your Child’s Evaluation
Your child’s Phase 1 evaluation at Spring St. Dental begins with a thorough review of their dental development, jaw alignment, and bite function. Our doctors use advanced imaging, including 3D Cone Beam CT technology when appropriate, to get a clear picture of what’s happening below the surface. From there, we put together a personalized plan that addresses your child’s specific needs.
Dr. Matthew Lassen leads a great deal of our orthodontic work and takes time to walk families through every recommendation, including what to expect at each stage of treatment, how long appliances will be worn, and what comes next. We want every parent to feel informed and confident before we begin.
Ready to schedule your appointment?
Contact Spring St. Dental today to book your consultation with our experienced team.
Schedule Your Child's Orthodontic Consultation Today
Spring St. Dental has been serving families across Bastrop and the surrounding communities with dental care built on trust and evidence-based techniques. Our calm, welcoming office is designed to make children feel at ease from the first visit, and our team takes care to explain everything in language that makes sense for both parents and kids.
If you have questions about whether your child may benefit from Phase 1 treatment, or you’re ready to schedule their first evaluation, we encourage you to contact our office today. Early care makes a difference, and we’re here to help your family navigate it.
Meet The Doctors
Dr. Matthew Lassen focuses on comprehensive dental care, offering everything from preventive services to advanced treatments like dental implants and root canals. By using state-of-the-art technology, Dr. Lassen ensures that every patient receives the best care for a healthy, beautiful smile.
Dr. Brian Romney specializes in family and cosmetic dentistry, providing services ranging from routine cleanings to advanced cosmetic procedures like veneers and teeth whitening. His patient-first approach and gentle demeanor make him a trusted choice for patients of all ages. Together, Drs. Lassen and Romney are committed to creating a welcoming experience for every patient at Spring St. Dental!
Benefit from State-of-the-Art Technology at Spring St. Dental
From your initial consultation to the final placement, our Bastrop dentist prioritizes your comfort and care, providing a smooth, stress-free experience in a welcoming environment. Trust Spring St. Dental for high-quality, durable crowns that protect and strengthen your teeth. Contact us today at 512-321-1600 or visit our contact form to schedule your consultation.
Visit Our Office
We’re conveniently located at 1207 Chestnut St., Bastrop, TX. Our office offers easy access with plenty of on-site parking. We look forward to welcoming you in a comfortable and modern environment!
Visit Us
Mon & Wed 7-5(Lunch 12-1)
Tues 7-5 (Lunch 12-1:30)
Thurs 7-3:30
Closed Fri-Sat-Sun