Early Interceptive Orthodontics
in South Carolina

Phase I orthodontic treatment helps guide jaw growth, create space, and prevent bigger issues down the road. At Davis Orthodontics, we make early care simple, positive, and personalized, so kids (and parents) feel confident every step of the way. Reach out today to schedule a consultation!

Preventive, proactive, and proven

What is early interceptive orthodontics?

Early interceptive orthodontics, also called Phase I treatment, is orthodontic care that begins before all permanent teeth have erupted, typically between ages 7 and 10. This early stage of care focuses on guiding jaw development, correcting harmful habits, and addressing problems like crowding or crossbites before they become more complex. At Davis Orthodontics, we use gentle, targeted treatments such as space maintainers, expanders, or partial braces to set the stage for a healthier, more efficient orthodontic journey. Our approach is educational and low-pressure. We’ll only recommend early treatment if it truly benefits your child’s long-term smile.

Give your child the best start

The benefits of early interceptive orthodontics

Phase I treatment helps us address alignment and jaw development concerns while your child is still growing, potentially reducing the need for more invasive treatment later on.

Supports healthy jaw growth

Early care can help guide jaw development and bite alignment while bones are still forming.

Creates space for permanent teeth

By addressing crowding early, we can make room for incoming adult teeth and reduce the need for extractions later.

Builds confidence and comfort

Starting early helps kids feel more comfortable with orthodontic care and confident in their smiles from the beginning.

Our early orthodontic treatments

Space maintainers

Palatal expanders

Partial braces or aligners

Space maintainers

Space maintainers are simple devices that help preserve room for permanent teeth when a baby tooth is lost early. They prevent nearby teeth from shifting out of place and help guide proper eruption. At Davis Orthodontics, we often use these as part of early treatment plans to avoid crowding and ensure a smoother path to a balanced smile.

Palatal expanders

Palatal expanders are used to gently widen the upper jaw, making more space for teeth and improving bite alignment. This treatment is most effective while a child’s bones are still developing. Our team uses digital scans to customize each appliance for comfort and effectiveness, helping kids breathe easier, chew better, and smile brighter.

Partial braces or aligners

In some cases, early treatment may include a limited set of braces or clear aligners to correct specific issues. This can help guide teeth into better positions and prepare for Phase II treatment later. We keep things light, positive, and kid-friendly—so your child can feel proud of their progress.

The early orthodontic process

Complimentary consultation

Our team will take a look at your child’s developing smile, using digital x-rays and scans to assess growth and tooth position. We’ll explain everything clearly and answer any questions you may have.

Personalized treatment plan

If early treatment is needed, we’ll build a plan tailored to your child’s needs and comfort, whether that means a space maintainer, expander, or limited braces.

Growing with confidence

Throughout treatment, we use monitoring tools to track progress and make adjustments as needed. Your child will start building good habits, healthy development, and a positive relationship with their smile.

See how early care makes a difference

Our before & after gallery shows how early treatment can create healthier, happier smiles, even before all permanent teeth are in place.

Frequently asked questions

Does my child really need orthodontic care this young?

Not always. We follow the American Association of Orthodontists’ recommendation to screen kids by age 7, but many won’t need treatment until later. If early intervention can help, we’ll explain why, and if not, we’ll keep an eye on things until it’s the right time.

Will my child still need braces later?

Possibly. Early treatment helps guide growth and address problems before they get worse, but many kids still benefit from Phase II treatment (full braces or aligners) as teens. The good news? Phase I can often make the second phase shorter and simpler.

Is early treatment covered by insurance?

Most dental insurance plans that include orthodontic benefits will cover early treatment. Our team will walk you through your insurance benefits and discuss our financing options to keep care accessible and affordable.

Still have questions?

Real stories,

real smiles

Davis Orthodontics provided professional, caring dental care for my 3rd grader! They explained everything, were easy to schedule with, and helped with his orthodontic issues. I would recommend and would return to this office again!

April P.

Davis orthodontics is second to none in quality and experience. This is my second time having braces as an adult, and I can honestly say I have full confidence in everything that they have done. They have me smiling my best smile. I think the best review anybody can leave is to bring more business. My son will be starting with them as a client in the next couple of weeks.

Joshua B.

Getting Landon’s smile beautiful was a wonderful experience 💚 thank yall! 🫶🏽

Diana B.

The staff have been very professional and polite and are always a joy to interact with. The service is top notch and the staff are very knowledgeable. Scheduling appointments is quick and easy and the appointments are efficient and we are in and out of the office in no time. Additionally, my son loves the free dippin dots ice cream he gets are each adjustment. He says it helps ease the minor pain associated with adjustments. I highly recommend this location!

Michael F.

We had a wonderful experience and great results with Davis Orthodontics! The process was very smooth, the staff was very professional. My son loved getting dippin' dots as a treat after appointments.

Olga M.

Dr Buddy and the team at Davis have been amazing to work with. My daughter’s new smile is perfect, and we are going to miss our visits. Thx for the best experience! We couldn’t give a higher recommendation.

Heather D.

My daughter got her braces put on today She was nervous at first, but the staff was very gentle and friendly and explained each step Very pleasant visit!

Crystal E.

Everyone is always extremely nice from the moment you walk in the door, like they’re actually happy to see me! Or maybe they just love my new smile. 😂 Either way, they have made this experience one I won’t forget… The dippin dots for simply showing up is a plus too

Queen J.

Could not recommend more highly!!! We have two kids currently getting braces here, and we have had the absolute best experience. They have been easy, streamlined and beyond kind and accommodating. The dentists, the assistants, the front desk and the office crew are all amazing. We drive from Greenville to this location and it’s worth every extra minute!

Kristine D.

My son got braces today and he loves them. Davis Ortho is the best. The staff is very friendly and they welcome you in like a family! I love them! Great service!!!

Latoya S.

Ready to start your
smile journey?

Schedule your free consultation today and discover how easy orthodontic treatment can be.

Dr. Buddy Davis is a board-certified orthodontist with a passion for building a strong community of smiles—both in the practice and beyond.

Dr. Buddy Davis is a board-certified orthodontist with a passion for building a strong community of smiles—both in the practice and beyond.

Early Interceptive Orthodontics
in South Carolina

What is early interceptive orthodontics?