Children can get braces as early as age 7 for early intervention, but most kids get full braces between ages 9 and 14. There is no maximum age for braces. Adults of any age can straighten their teeth and improve their bite with orthodontic treatment.
The best time to get braces depends on your child’s dental development, not just their birthday. Some children benefit from early treatment while others should wait until more permanent teeth come in. This guide helps parents understand the right timing for their child and answers common questions about braces at every age.
Why Age 7 Is the Right Time for a First Orthodontic Evaluation
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. Dr. Boris Pinhasov agrees that “7 is the golden number for getting evaluated for the first time by an orthodontist.”
At age 7, most children have a mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth. This is enough for an orthodontist to identify potential problems with jaw growth, tooth spacing, and bite alignment. Early evaluation does not mean your child will get braces right away. It means the orthodontist can monitor development and recommend treatment at the optimal time.
- What the orthodontist looks for at age 7: Crowding or spacing issues, crossbites, overbites, underbites, open bites, protruding front teeth, thumb sucking effects, mouth breathing habits, early or late loss of baby teeth, and jaw growth patterns.
- Benefits of early evaluation: The orthodontist can catch problems before they become more difficult to treat. Some issues are easier to correct while the jaw is still growing. Early detection allows for better treatment planning, even if braces are not needed for several more years.
Most children who visit the orthodontist at age 7 do not need immediate treatment. The orthodontist may recommend monitoring growth with periodic check-ups until the time is right for braces.
What Is Early Orthodontic Treatment (Phase 1)?
Some children benefit from early orthodontic treatment, also called Phase 1 or interceptive treatment. This typically occurs between ages 7 and 10, before all permanent teeth have come in.
- Phase 1 treatment may include: Palate expanders to widen a narrow upper jaw, partial braces on some teeth, space maintainers to hold room for permanent teeth, appliances to correct crossbites, and habit-breaking devices for thumb sucking.
- When Phase 1 is recommended: Severe crowding that will worsen without intervention, crossbites affecting jaw growth, protruding front teeth at risk of injury, habits like thumb sucking that are affecting tooth position, and significant bite problems that are easier to correct during growth.
- Phase 1 is NOT for everyone: Most children do not need early treatment. If your child’s orthodontist recommends waiting, that is often the best approach. Early treatment should only be done when there is a clear benefit that cannot be achieved by waiting.
After Phase 1 treatment, most children take a break and then begin Phase 2 (full braces) once more permanent teeth have come in, usually around ages 11 to 14.
What Is the Best Age to Get Braces?
The ideal age for full braces is typically between 9 and 14 years old. By this age, most children have lost their baby teeth and their permanent teeth have come in, but they are still growing.
- Why ages 9 to 14 are ideal: Most or all permanent teeth are present, allowing comprehensive treatment. The jaw is still growing, making certain corrections easier. Bone is less dense than in adults, so teeth move more efficiently. Children are old enough to follow care instructions and maintain good oral hygiene.
- The “sweet spot” is often around ages 11 to 13: This is when most children have all their permanent teeth except wisdom teeth. Treatment can address the full picture of alignment and bite issues. Recovery from treatment tends to be smooth because young bones adapt well.
Your orthodontist will recommend the specific timing based on your child’s individual development. Some children are ready at 9 while others should wait until 13 or 14.
Is My Child Too Young for Braces?
Some parents wonder if their young child needs braces right away. In most cases, there is no rush.
- Signs your child may be ready for braces: Most baby teeth have fallen out and permanent teeth are coming in. There is noticeable crowding, spacing, or bite issues. The orthodontist has evaluated your child and recommended treatment.
- Signs to wait: Your child still has many baby teeth. The orthodontist recommends monitoring growth before starting treatment. Your child is not mature enough to care for braces properly.
- Why waiting is often better: Starting braces too early can mean longer overall treatment time if a second phase is needed later. Waiting until more permanent teeth are in allows for more complete treatment in one phase. Children who are slightly older may be more cooperative and better at maintaining oral hygiene.
If your child is under 9 and you are concerned about their teeth, schedule an evaluation. The orthodontist can tell you whether early treatment is beneficial or whether waiting is the better choice.
Is My Teenager Too Old for Braces?
Teenagers are never too old for braces. In fact, the teenage years are one of the most common times for orthodontic treatment.
- Ages 13 to 17 are excellent for braces: All permanent teeth are typically in place. Jaw growth is slowing but bones are still responsive to orthodontic forces. Teens are mature enough to follow care instructions. Many peers are also wearing braces, making it socially easier.
- Why some teens start later: Some families wait for financial reasons or until dental insurance orthodontic benefits kick in. Some teens request braces themselves after becoming more aware of their appearance. Some orthodontic issues do not become fully apparent until later adolescence.
- Options for self-conscious teens: Clear ceramic braces are less noticeable than metal braces. Invisalign Teen offers a nearly invisible option for appropriate cases. Lingual braces are placed behind the teeth for complete invisibility.
If your teenager wants braces, there is no reason to delay. The sooner treatment begins, the sooner they will have the smile they want.
Can Adults Get Braces?
Yes, adults of any age can get braces. There is no upper age limit for orthodontic treatment.
- Adults commonly get braces for: Correcting crowding or spacing that has bothered them for years. Fixing bite problems that cause jaw pain or uneven wear. Improving their smile for personal or professional confidence. Preparing teeth for other dental work like implants or crowns. Addressing teeth that have shifted over time.
- How adult treatment differs: Adult bones are fully developed and denser than children’s bones, so tooth movement may take slightly longer. Adults are more likely to have previous dental work that must be considered in treatment planning. Some adults need collaboration between their orthodontist and other dental specialists.
- Adult treatment options: Traditional metal braces work well for adults and are the most effective for complex cases. Ceramic braces offer a more discreet appearance. Invisalign is popular among adults who want nearly invisible treatment. Lingual braces are hidden behind the teeth for complete discretion.
Many adults who get braces say they wish they had done it sooner. Orthodontic treatment can improve your smile and oral health at any stage of life.
How Do I Know If My Child Needs Braces?
Parents often notice signs that suggest their child may benefit from orthodontic treatment. Here are the most common indicators:
- Visible alignment issues: Crooked or overlapping teeth, gaps between teeth, teeth that stick out or sit too far back, teeth that do not line up when biting together.
- Bite problems: Upper teeth extend too far over lower teeth (overbite), lower teeth sit in front of upper teeth (underbite), upper and lower teeth do not meet when biting (open bite), upper teeth sit inside lower teeth on one or both sides (crossbite).
- Functional concerns: Difficulty chewing or biting food, speech difficulties, mouth breathing instead of nose breathing, jaw pain or clicking.
- Habits and history: Prolonged thumb sucking or pacifier use past age 4, early or late loss of baby teeth, family history of orthodontic issues.
- Remember: Not all orthodontic problems are visible. Some bite issues and jaw problems can only be detected with X-rays and a professional examination. This is why the age 7 evaluation is so important, even if your child’s teeth look straight.
Why Choose BP Smiles for Your Child’s Braces
At BP Smiles Orthodontics, families throughout Queens trust Dr. Boris Pinhasov to guide their children through orthodontic treatment with expertise and compassion.
Dr. Boris is a board-certified orthodontist and a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics, a distinction achieved by fewer than one in three orthodontists. With 20 years of experience and credentials from NYU College of Dentistry and Maimonides Medical Center, he provides the highest level of orthodontic care for patients of all ages.
“Everyone deserves our best, all the time,” says Dr. Boris Pinhasov. “My mission is to provide exceptional orthodontic care that gives patients the confidence to connect with others and achieve their dreams.”
BP Smiles has earned over 170 five-star Google reviews from parents who appreciate the gentle, kid-friendly approach. The office uses digital 3D scanning technology and modern low-profile brackets to make treatment comfortable and efficient.
Located at 208-09 Union Turnpike in Flushing, BP Smiles offers free consultations for children of any age. Evening and Sunday appointments are available to accommodate busy family schedules. Whether your child is 7 or 17, schedule a free evaluation to learn about the best timing for their orthodontic care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a 6 year old get braces?
Most 6 year olds are too young for full braces, but some may benefit from early intervention appliances if there is a significant problem. The orthodontist can evaluate your child and recommend the best approach.
What if my child still has baby teeth?
Having some baby teeth does not prevent orthodontic treatment. Phase 1 treatment can begin while baby teeth are still present. Full braces typically wait until most permanent teeth have come in.
Is 15 too late for braces?
No, 15 is an excellent age for braces. Many patients begin treatment as teenagers and achieve outstanding results. It is never too late to straighten your teeth.
Do braces work faster on younger patients?
Generally, yes. Children and teenagers have bones that are still growing and more responsive to orthodontic forces. However, adults can still achieve excellent results, and treatment time depends more on the complexity of the case than age alone.
At what age should I schedule my child’s first orthodontic visit?
Age 7 is the recommended age for a first orthodontic evaluation. This allows the orthodontist to monitor development and recommend treatment at the optimal time.
Disclaimer
Medically reviewed by Dr. Boris Pinhasov, Board-Certified Orthodontist.
This content is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.
