Expert Early Orthodontic Care in Flint & Grand Blanc
Free Consultations to Determine Whether Early Orthodontic Treatment is Right for Your Child.
For over 25 years, Wendling Orthodontics has evaluated thousands of young patients, helping families decide if early orthodontic treatment is the right step for their child. Every patient is personally evaluated by Dr. Lisa Wendling, Dr. Jessica Perry, or Dr. Nolan Wendling to ensure thoughtful, individualized care.
- Over 25 years of personalized orthodontic care for young patients, delivered by experienced orthodontists.
What Is Early Orthodontic Treatment?
Early orthodontic treatment, also called Phase I or interceptive orthodontics, usually begins between the ages of 7 and 10, when children have a combination of baby teeth and adult teeth. . The American Association of Orthodontists recommends all children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7.
Common Goals of Early Orthodontic Treatment When Indicated
- To create space for permanent teeth to erupt properly and reduce crowding
- To guide jaw growth during key developmental years in children with significant underbites or overbites and, in some cases, prevent future surgical procedures
- To correct crossbites and narrow arches
- To reduce the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth and improve facial profile
- To simplify or shorten future comprehensive (Phase II) treatment and reduce the potential need for extractions or jaw surgery
- To help improve nasal breathing space and support healthier sleep in children with sleep-disordered breathing.
Your Child’s Phase I Treatment Experience at Wendling Orthodontics
Every child is unique, so we thoughtfully assess each one to determine whether early orthodontic treatment would be beneficial.
Initial Orthodontic Evaluation (between the ages of 6 and 10)
We carefully evaluate your child’s dental development and facial growth to identify any tooth or jaw concerns early and determine the best time to begin orthodontic treatment if needed.
Active Treatment Phase
A personalized plan will be developed for your child’s specific needs. Typical Phase I treatment often involves the use of one or more of the following: Rapid Palatal Expander (RPE), Limited Braces, Habit Appliance, Clear Aligners, or Growth Modification Device.
Growing Smile Supervision Program
After Phase I treatment, we monitor your child’s growth and development 6 to 9 month intervals to determine if and when further orthodontic care, known as Phase II treatment, is appropriate for your child..
Phase II Comprehensive Treatment: Completing the Smile
After Phase I treatment and further dental eruption and development, many children require Phase II orthodontic care in early adolescence (usually ages 11-14) to complete dental alignment and finalize their orthodontic results.
What Concerns Can Phase I Orthodontic Treatment Address?
- Dental crowding and limited space for erupting permanent teeth
- Crossbites and narrow upper arches
- Jaw growth imbalances that can contribute to underbites or significant overbites
- Dental and skeletal effects of oral habits such as thumb sucking or or tongue thrusting
- Nasal airway limitations related to a narrow upper jaw (maxilla)
Phase I treatment addresses certain orthodontic concerns that can benefit from early care. Dr. Lisa Wendling, Dr. Jessica Perry, or Dr Nolan Wendling will carefully evaluate your child’s individual development and help guide you on the best timing if treatment is recommended.
Typical Phase I treatment often involves the use of one or more of the following:
Rapid Palatal Expander (RPE) to widen the upper jaw(palate) to correct a crossbite, narrow jaw, or provide necessary space for tooth eruption
Limited Braces to correct severe dental alignment
Habit Appliance to address oral habits such as thumb sucking and tongue thrust
Clear Aligners to address certain dental alignment and growth concerns
Growth Modification Device such as a Facemask (reverse pull headgear) to improve facial balance in the presence of an underbite or underdeveloped upper jaw
Several payment options are available to help a new smile fit your budget.
Pricing
Have orthodontic insurance?
Great! We will make the most of your insurance dollars!
AS LOW AS
$175-$225
PER MONTH
- Down payment as low as $800-1000
- Eat whatever foods you enjoy
- Easily Removable
- Office visits every 12 weeks
- 12-20 months treatment time
- One of the areas Top Providers
- Safe BPA-Free Material
- Great option for Teens/Adults
Braces
AS LOW AS
$175-$225
PER MONTH
- Down payment as low as $800-1000
- Adjust Teeth 24/7
- Customized Colors
- Office visit every ~6-8 weeks
- 12-24 months treatment time
- One of the areas Top Providers
- Choose Clear or Metal
- Best option for kids
Let’s Get Started
Schedule your Free Consultation Today
Find out if early treatment might support your child’s growing smile
Why Families turn to Wendling Orthodontics for Early Orthodontic Care
Experienced, Thoughtful Evaluations
Our team of three orthodontists brings more than 30 years of combined experience evaluating growing patients
Conservative, Personal Approach
We recommend early treatment only when it offers clear benefit. Our goal is the right treatment at the right time
Clear Guidance for Parents
We take time to explain findings, answer questions, and help families feel confident about timing and treatment options
Modern Technology and Proven Techniques
Our practice combines advanced imaging, and modern orthodontic techniques designed to provide effective, carefully guided early treatment
Continuity of Care as Your Child Grows
Our Growing Smiles Supervision Program allows us to monitor your child’s growth and development over time after Phase I treatment and determine if Phase II treatment may be needed
Meet the Orthodontists Who Will Evaluate Your Child
Dr. Lisa Wendling, DDS, MS
Dr. Wendling has evaluated thousands of young patients since 1998. She thoroughly assesses each child to determine if Phase I will benefit them and guides parents through decisions.
Dr. Jessica Perry, DDS, MS, Orthodontist
Dr. Perry creates positive early experiences for young patients. She ensures children and parents understand the treatment process and feel comfortable.
Dr. Nolan Wendling, DDS, MS
Dr. Nolan Wendling earned his dental degree from Columbia University and completed his orthodontic residency and Master’s Degree at Saint Louis University. He returned to Mid-Michigan in 2025 to join Wendling Orthodontics, bringing rigorous clinical training and a genuine connection to the community he grew up in.
What Families Say About Our Early Treatment Care
Common Questions About Early Orthodontic Treatment
At what age should my child have their first orthodontic evaluation?
Most children should have their first orthodontic evaluation around age 7. At this stage, enough permanent teeth have usually erupted to identify developing concerns with jaw growth, bite alignment, or tooth eruption.
Does every child need Phase I early orthodontic treatment?
Early evaluation does not always mean early treatment – it simply allows us to monitor growth and determine the most appropriate timing if care is needed
How long will Phase I early treatment typically take?
Phase I treatment usually lasts 6-12months depending on your child’s specific needs and treatment goals.
If my child has Phase I treatment, will they still need braces later?
Many children who have Phase I treatment will still need braces later. Early treatment helps guide growth and tooth development, often making future treatment more efficient and helping achieve the best long-term result.
What should we expect during the free initial consultation?
During the visit, we take diagnostic photos, a digital X-ray, and often a 3D iTero scan. One of our orthodontists – Dr. Lisa Wendling, Dr. Jessica Perry, or Dr. Nolan Wendling- will carefully evaluate your child and discuss a customized plan if treatment is recommended
How much should I expect to invest in Phase I treatment?
The cost depends on your child’s specific treatment needs. To make care accessible, we offer flexible payment plans starting at about $150 per month, with down payments generally between $500 and $1000.
Proudly Caring for Young Patients Across Genesee County and the Greater Flint Region
We’re pleased to care for families throughout Flint, Grand Blanc, and neighboring communities for orthodontic evaluations and treatment.
Flint | Grand Blanc | Burton | Fenton | Davison | Swartz Creek | Flushing | Holly | Linden | Goodrich | Clio | Frankenmuth | Birch Run | Corunna
Modern Offices Designed for Young Patients and Families
Advanced Diagnostic Technology
3D iTero intraoral scanner captures highly detailed images of teeth and bite without messy impressions Low radiation digital X-rays.
Comfortable, Welcoming Office Environment
Enjoy a modern, family-friendly environment with a welcoming treatment area, relaxing waiting space, and complimentary coffee bar
Thoughtful Amenities to Enhance Your Visit
We offer fun post-appointment contests, a welcoming waiting space for families, and bar-style seating ideal for parents who wish to work or multitask during their child’s visit.
Let’s Begin Your Child’s Orthodontic Journey
Schedule a free consultation to see if early treatment is right for your child.
GIVE US A CALL
Call 810-733-3410 (Flint) Call 810-214-3711 (Grand Blanc)
WORKING HOURS
Monday-Thursday: 8:00am-5:00pm Friday 7:30am-1:00pm