Some young children benefit from interceptive orthodontic treatment. This treatment may include eruption guidance of the permanent teeth, control of habits, cross bite correction, and management of crowding in the mixed dentition. Orthopedic correction of skeletal discrepancies may also be accomplished in the young, growing patient. The practitioner should be able to recognize these potential patients and be familiar with viable treatment options. Most importantly, the skilled clinician must determine when such Phase I treatment is beneficial and defendable.