Phase 1 Orthodontics Pembroke Pines Ages 6-10
As a mom in Pembroke Pines, I know how spotting those first signs of crowding or a crossbite in your 6-10 year old can make your heart skip. That's why early Phase 1 orthodontics feels like such a smart, gentle step—guiding little smiles toward their best without rushing into full braces.
At SMILE-FX Orthodontics in Miramar, we're all about making this phase reassuring and effective for kids. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that first evaluation around age 7, not to scare you, but to catch opportunities early—like creating space for permanent teeth or fixing habits like thumb sucking before they stick around.
Why Pembroke Pines Families Choose SMILE-FX for Phase 1
Families from Pembroke Pines drive just 10-15 minutes down the turnpike to our Miramar location (check our interactive map here). It's worth it for our board-certified orthodontists—the only ones your pediatric dentist trusts #1 in South Florida. No general dentists here cutting corners; just specialists who've treated thousands of kids just like yours.
- Pediatric-friendly scheduling: Appointments around school drop-offs, with flexible weekends for Broward families.
- Comfort-first visits: Snacks, games, VR distractions, weighted blankets, noise-canceling headphones, and a personal VIP suite with kid shows.
- Cutting-edge tech: Low-dose CBCT scans explained simply, so you see exactly what's happening without worry.
Signs Your 6-10 Year Old May Benefit from Phase 1
These aren't emergencies, just nudges toward healthier growth. Watch for:
| Sign | What It Means | How Phase 1 Helps |
|---|---|---|
| Crowding | Baby teeth overlapping | Creates space for adult teeth |
| Crossbite | Back teeth misaligned | Guides jaw growth evenly |
| Mouth breathing | Habitual open mouth | Encourages nasal breathing |
| Thumb sucking | Persistent after age 5 | Appliance gently redirects |
Learn more in our guide on treatable cases.
Not Every Kid Needs Treatment—And That's Okay
Honesty builds trust: At your free consult, if it's "watch and wait," we'll say so. Many kids thrive with monitoring alone, proving we're here for your child's best outcome, not just treatment.
Pembroke Pines Phase 1 FAQs
- How far is SMILE-FX from Pembroke Pines? A quick 10-15 minute drive via I-75—perfect for after-school slots.
- What's the first visit like for my 7-year-old? 30-45 minutes: Fun chat, low-dose digital scans, and a personalized growth plan. Kids love the VR goggles!
- Why age 7 for evaluation? AAO says it's ideal to spot growth patterns early, normalizing any uncertainty without pressure.
- Do you coordinate with our Pines Charter pediatric dentist? Absolutely—we're their top referral partner in Broward.
- How does Phase 1 differ from full braces? Shorter, targeted appliances for ages 6-10, preventing bigger issues later.
See how we're different at our unique approach page or real stories on patient reviews.
Parents from Hollywood, Weston, Cooper City, Davie, and Fort Lauderdale rave about the drive for our expertise. Mention your school—like Silver Lakes Elementary—and we'll make it feel like home.
Ready to give your child that confident start? Book a free orthodontic consultation today. Take our Smile Quiz first if you'd like.

