Two young girls smiling after receiving treatment at Sheffield and Le Orthodontics

Give Your Child a Head Start for a Lifetime of Smiles

Trusted Phase 1 Orthodontics in Antioch, CA

At Sheffield & Le Orthodontics, we believe in giving every child the best start possible. If your child is around age 7, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends scheduling an orthodontic exam to determine if they may benefit from early orthodontic treatment.

Also known as phase 1 orthodontics, our proactive approach helps guide jaw development, create space for incoming adult teeth, and address early bite concerns while your child’s mouth is still growing. With decades of experience, personalized treatment plans, and a supportive, family-first environment, we’re proud to be a trusted choice for early orthodontic care in Antioch and across East County.

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What Is Early Orthodontic Treatment?

Early treatment focuses on guiding proper jaw development, correcting functional issues, and making room for permanent teeth to come in naturally. Screening for early orthodontic treatment typically begins around age 7 because most children still have a mix of baby and permanent teeth at that age. Dr. Sheffield or Dr. Le will carefully evaluate your child’s growth and dental development during a thorough oral exam, which will determine whether early care is the right next step.

Is Early Orthodontic Treatment Necessary?

For many children, early orthodontic treatment is not necessary. If your child doesn’t need early treatment, we’ll continue to monitor their smile with regular check-ins as they grow. At Sheffield & Le Orthodontics, we are firm believers in not using early treatment when it is not needed. Each child is evaluated on a case-by-case basis and the recommendation to start early treatment is not given lightly.

What Can Phase One Orthodontic Treatment Correct?

Early orthodontic care can make a big difference in your child’s smile and in their overall health. Our doctors are skilled at identifying and addressing orthodontic concerns at an early age, helping to guide proper growth and development. Some of the common issues that phase 1 orthodontics can treat include:

Crossbites, underbites, and overbites
Front teeth that stick out and are prone to injury
Crowding and spacing issues
Sleep-disordered breathing or sleep apnea

Early intervention isn’t just about straight teeth, but about setting your child up for long-term confidence, comfort, and oral health. Plus, addressing issues early can significantly reduce the complexity and investment of future treatments.

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Types of Phase One Orthodontic Treatment in Antioch

At our Antioch location, we personalize each early treatment plan to support your child’s individual needs and developmental stage. Here are the early treatment options we offer:

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Clear Aligners

Clear aligners are a comfortable, low-profile option for kids with mild alignment needs. These removable trays gently shift teeth into place and are removable, making it easy for kids to brush and enjoy their favorite foods without restrictions.

See the Magic of Clear Aligners

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Braces for Kids

We proudly use Damon braces, which are an advanced, self-ligating system designed for comfort, precision, and efficiency. These braces apply gentle, consistent pressure to move teeth and help guide jaw development, making them an excellent choice for addressing more complex bite and spacing issues early on.

Learn More About Damon Braces

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Palatal Expanders

When a child’s upper jaw is too narrow, a palatal expander can gently create the space needed for permanent teeth to come in properly. This treatment helps improve bite alignment, supports healthier development, and can even reduce the need for future extractions. It’s most effective while the jaw is still growing, making early intervention key.

Space Maintainers

If a baby tooth is lost too soon, a space maintainer can help keep the area open until the permanent tooth is ready to erupt. This simple appliance prevents nearby teeth from shifting into the space, helping avoid future crowding or alignment issues.

Trusted Early Orthodontic Care Near You in Antioch

At Sheffield & Le Orthodontics, we’ve proudly cared for families in the Antioch community for years, creating smiles in a space that’s warm, welcoming, and fun. Parents trust us for our honest advice about unnecessary treatment, open communication, and the way we treat every child with the same care and dedication we’d give our own.

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See Why Families Across East County Trust Sheffield & Le Orthodontics

Ready to See if Phase 1 Treatment Is Right for Your Child?

We’d love to meet you and help your child take the next step toward a lifetime of confident smiles. At Sheffield & Le Orthodontics in Antioch, we offer honest recommendations, family-friendly care, and treatment that’s tailored to your child’s needs.

Schedule a complimentary consultation today and find out if early orthodontic treatment is the right choice for your child’s future.

Schedule a Complimentary Consultation

Mother hugging her daughter who is undergoing early orthodontic treatment with braces