Recommended Age for Braces 

Most parents start to think about their children’s teeth when their baby teeth start falling out and as their adult teeth start showing. Many times their concerns start if teeth look crooked, there are gaps, or even major overbites are visible. While all these questions are valid, the biggest question that arises is “What is the best age for my child to visit an orthodontist?”

While visiting the orthodontist and getting braces are two different things, there are certain steps that can be taken with one that may help determine the other. Age is not always the best factor when determining if orthodontics is appropriate, however, most orthodontist will give a guideline or range of when they believe children should get treatment depending on their own experience and practices.

Most recommend the application of braces between the ages of 10-14 years. This age tends to have most adult teeth in place, which provides the most effective method. This age also is helpful since the jawbone and surrounding bone structures typically are not fully developed. This makes them easily malleable to realign the teeth and more importantly makes it easier to correct any type of bite issues. While this range of age is best for application of braces, it is not to say that a child cannot visit their orthodontist sooner. In fact, many orthodontist recommend children as young as 7 should have a check-up with an orthodontist to determine any underlying issues that may arise as a more serious case later on in life. This may also help to assist your orthodontist to determine a treatment plan and time-frame in which to conduct it.

Your family dentist may also help with your questions as they have a better understanding and access to your child’s records. They may be able to determine if 7 would be a good age, or if you may need to visit them sooner. Dentist understand what to look for and how the braces function. There are different treatment plans for orthodontic care and your child’s orthodontist will be able to consult which would be best for your child. Some of these treatments consist of a two-part plan, where starting off younger may be best. These situations are usually reserved for more severe cases, however, your orthodontist will be able to go all approaches with you beforehand.

Perhaps you are wondering for yourself about braces, and not kids. If this is the case, know that is never too late to get braces! Having straight, healthy teeth is not only something we all want to see in the mirror, but it is also important for your overall health to have them aligned correctly. If you are looking for your Orlando orthodontist, look no further than Baptiste Orthodontics. Our expert staff is here to answer any and all of your questions. We offer a variety of services and treatment options geared towards helping you and your family get the smile you always wanted! Call and schedule your consultation today.