Early & Phase 1 treatment in Mill Valley.
Gentle, well-timed orthodontic care for growing smiles - guiding jaw development before problems set in, with 3D imaging by Dr. Sachee Parikh, UCSF faculty, at a Mill Valley practice serving Marin since 1967.
Complimentary early evaluation with a 3D scan
Could your child benefit from early treatment?
Most kids just need periodic monitoring - but catching certain issues early can make all the difference. A complimentary evaluation with Dr. Parikh is the clearest way to know.
Early treatment can address
- Crowding or not enough room for adult teeth
- Crossbite or a shifting jaw
- Protruding or flared front teeth
- Effects of thumb-sucking or mouth breathing
- Imbalances in how the upper and lower jaws grow
Worth an evaluation if your child
- Your child is around age 7 or older (the AAO's recommended first check-up age)
- Baby teeth were lost unusually early or late
- You can already see crowding or spacing concerns
- Your child snores at night or you have concerns about breathing, sleep, or their airway
Meet Dr. Sachee Parikh
Dr. Parikh sees orthodontics as a blend of science, art, and technology, where every patient is genuinely unique. A UCSF-trained orthodontist, she has cared for Mill Valley families since 2014, combining modern tools and techniques with the warm, personal attention this community knows her for.
Her approach goes beyond simply straightening teeth. She considers the whole patient, including growth, function, facial balance, and long-term health, to create thoughtful, individualized treatment plans designed around each person in front of her.
For Dr. Parikh, being part of Mill Valley extends well beyond the walls of the practice. She is proud to support the youth sports, arts, and community programs that help make this such a special place to grow up. And when you see her around town, at a game, a school event, or just out and about, be sure to say hi!
You'll see Dr. Parikh herself at every visit. The orthodontist who designs your plan is the one who treats you, start to finish.
- DDS & Certificate in Orthodontics, UCSF
- Master's degree, Orofacial Sciences, UCSF
- Faculty, UCSF Department of Orthodontics
- American Association of Orthodontists
Early treatment, step by step.
From your child's first visit onward, here's how we guide a healthy, confident smile.
01
Complimentary early evaluation & 3D scan
Bring your child in for a complimentary exam. Dr. Parikh uses 3D imaging to assess jaw growth, spacing, and bite as their smile develops.
02
A right-time plan
Often the best first step is simply to monitor growth. When early treatment will truly help, we begin a focused, well-timed Phase 1 plan - never sooner than needed.
03
Guide growth, then reassess
Phase 1 gently guides jaw and tooth development. We then watch as adult teeth come in, and recommend further treatment only if it's genuinely needed.
Care that fits your life - and your budget.
A confident smile shouldn't be out of reach. We make starting treatment simple and affordable.
Flexible payment plans
Monthly plans designed around your family's budget, so cost never stands between you and the right treatment.
Insurance & FSA/HSA
Have orthodontic benefits? We'll help you understand your coverage and make the most of it.
A complimentary first exam
Your initial consultation is complimentary - a full evaluation and a clear plan, with no pressure and no obligation.
Loved by Marin families.
For over half a century, our reputation has been built one smile, and one neighbor, at a time.
Early treatment questions, answered.
The things Mill Valley parents ask us most. Still wondering about something? We'll cover it all at your child's complimentary exam.
What is Phase 1 (early) treatment?
Phase 1, or interceptive, treatment is a short, focused round of orthodontics for children who still have most of their baby teeth. It guides jaw growth and creates room for incoming adult teeth - making later treatment simpler, shorter, or sometimes unnecessary.
At what age should my child see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic check-up by age 7. By then enough adult teeth have come in for Dr. Parikh to spot developing issues early - and your child's first visit with us is always complimentary.
Does my child need treatment now, or can we wait?
Most children who come in for an early evaluation don't need treatment yet - they simply benefit from periodic monitoring as they grow. Dr. Parikh will only recommend starting when there's a clear, time-sensitive reason to.
How much does early treatment cost?
It depends on whether treatment is needed and what it involves. At your child's complimentary exam we'll explain everything clearly and give you a personalized estimate - along with flexible financing options and a review of any orthodontic insurance benefits.
Will my child still need braces later?
Sometimes. Phase 1 sets up a healthier foundation, and some children later need a shorter second phase of braces or clear aligners once their adult teeth are in. Early treatment often makes that second phase simpler and faster.
What problems can early treatment prevent?
Guiding growth at the right time can reduce crowding, correct crossbites and harmful bite patterns, create room for adult teeth, and lower the chance of needing extractions or surgery later. It can also protect prominent front teeth from injury.
Start your smile journey today.
New-patient exams are complimentary. We'll get to know you, answer every question, and map out exactly what's next - no pressure.
- A comprehensive exam with Dr. Parikh
- 3D imaging & digital scan
- A preview of your potential results
- A personalized treatment plan
- Insurance & cost review
Visit us
163 Miller Avenue, Suite 3
Mill Valley, CA 94941
Hours
Monday – Thursday
9am – 5pm