Best Age to Get Braces for Your Child: A Parent’s Guide Today

When should you get your child braces? Find out the best age to get your child braces. Learn about key times for orthodontics, early orthodontic treatments and some tips for teens and adults.

Getting your child a straight, healthy, confident smile can be one of the most rewarding milestones in their lives. Parents often wonder when to take their child for their first orthodontic appointment. Many adults also wonder if it is too late to get braces.

Orthodontists will carefully assess how your child’s teeth are developing to find the perfect time for braces. Knowing the best age ranges, spotting early signs and understanding what to expect means you can make informed decisions to help your family.

Why Should You See An Orthodontist Early?

Orthodontists often advise getting your child checked out as early as 7. They will have a mix of primary and permanent teeth.

• Spot Issues Early – An experienced orthodontist will be able to spot developing issues with their bite, crowding and jaw growth.

• Guide Jaw Development – Getting your child assessed at a younger age will mean their jaw bones can be guided as they grow to create enough room for their permanent teeth.

• Avoid Future Complicated Surgery – Early intervention will fix small issues with their jaw bones to avoid needing jaw surgery or extractions.

What Is the Best Age For Traditional Braces?

Most orthodontists will fit traditional metal or ceramic braces between the age of 10-14. This is because most of their baby teeth will have fallen out and most of their permanent teeth will have grown in.

• Perfect Bone Flexibility – Young teenagers will have soft, flexible jaw bones. This means their teeth can easily and quickly be moved into the correct position.

• Normal Time In School – Getting braces whilst they’re in middle or high school is normal. Many of their peers will be getting braces at the same time.

• Fast Healing – Teenagers have fast healing so their gums and jaws will quickly adjust to their teeth moving.

When Do Younger Kids Need Early Orthodontic Treatment?

Some children may require early orthodontic treatment between the ages of 7-10. This is known as phase one treatment.

• Fix Severe Cross- bite – This can help to widen their upper jaw so their bite is corrected.

• Stop Bad Habits – Early intervention can help to stop them sucking their thumb or protruding their tongue for long periods of time.

• Save Space – If they lose a primary tooth too early due to decay or damage, the orthodontist will fit them with a space maintainer.

Why Are the Teenage Years Ideal For Orthodontics?

The teenage years are the gold standard for orthodontics. By 12-13 their second molars will have come through meaning orthodontists can correctly fix their bite.

• Fix Complex Bite – Teens often require fixing of overbites, under-bites, open bites and severe crowding.

• Fun Colored Rubber Bands – Modern braces come in fun colors. Teenagers love being able to choose their own color for their monthly appointments.

• Healthy Teeth – Having straight teeth makes brushing and flossing easier. This prevents them from getting cavities in the future.

Can Adults Get Braces?

Many millions of adults decide to get their teeth straightened and their bite fixed. Many adults choose to get their teeth straightened at 30, 40 and above.

• No Age Limit – As long as your gums and jaw bones are healthy you can get your teeth straightened at any age.

• Boost Confidence At Work – Many adults choose to get clear aligners or lingual braces to improve their smile.

• Relieve Pain – Orthodontics can help relieve pain in their jaw joint, headaches and uneven teeth wear.

What Are the Signs Your Child Will Need Braces Soon?

Look out for these signs that your growing child will need an orthodontist appointment.

• Baby Teeth Lost Too Early/Late – If they are losing their baby teeth too early or too late this can cause issues.

• Overlapping/Crowding – If their teeth are severely overlapping, crowding or protruding they will need professional help.

• Difficult Eating – If they are biting their cheeks often or struggling to eat their food they likely have an incorrect bite.

• Mouth Breathing – Children who breath through their mouths often have a narrow upper jaw and crowding.

What Modern Orthodontic Treatments Are Available?

Orthodontics have come a long way! There are many comfortable options available.

• Tooth colored ceramic braces – These braces are perfect as they match the color of your enamel.

• Clear Removable Aligners – These transparent aligners will straighten your teeth without any metal.

• Lingual Braces – The orthodontist will fit metal braces behind your teeth so they’re completely invisible.

How Can You Make Your Child Feel Confident?

Make sure your child feels confident going to their first appointment.

• Tell Them It’s Nothing To Fear – Tell them the orthodontist will just count their teeth, take some fun photos and look at their smile.

• Don’t Use Scary Words – Don’t use any scary words such as pain, needles or drills.

• Be Honest – Tell them getting braces is completely normal and an exciting part of growing up with a shiny smile.

How Can You Keep Teeth Healthy With Braces?

Braces require extra care when brushing and flossing to keep your enamel healthy and avoid permanent staining.

• Brush After Meals – Food gets stuck in the metal braces so you’ll need to brush thoroughly after breakfast, lunch and dinner.

• Floss Daily – You’ll need to floss daily using special threaders to thread the floss under the wires.

• Avoid Sticky And Hard Foods – Avoid eating any sticky foods such as chewing gum, caramel or hard foods such as nuts and popcorn.

What Are the Benefits Of Getting Braces On Time?

Getting braces on time will give you many benefits for the future.

• Healthy Enamel/Gums – Having straight teeth will remove any tight areas where your teeth overlap. This will massively reduce the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.

• Improved Facial Symmetry – Having a correct bite will help your lips and facial muscles to work together. This will boost your confidence.

• Longer Lasting Teeth – Having a balanced bite will mean your teeth won’t wear down as quickly. This will prevent cracking in old age.

What Are the Frequently Asked Questions About Braces?

Is 7 too young?

No, 7 isn’t too young. However, children rarely get braces at this age. The orthodontist will be checking their jaw growth and looking for any hidden issues.

Will I get more pain?

You won’t get any more pain than a teenager. However, your jaw bones will be denser. This means your teeth may move slower. This could mean you’ll have a few more days of slight discomfort.

How long do people usually have braces?

Most people will have braces for between 18-36 months. This depends on how bad their bite is and how well they follow the rubber bands.

Can I get braces if I’m missing teeth?

Yes, many patients with missing teeth go to an orthodontist. Orthodontics can help to close any gaps or perfectly redistribute any space to get your mouth ready for dental implants in the future.

The best age to get braces will depend on your individual needs. 7 is a great time to get your child checked out but early teens are the best time for traditional braces. Adults can get amazing results at any age. Book an appointment with an orthodontist to find out the best time for your smile.