Getting braces at the ideal age can help your child reduce the risk of dental complications later in life. This age can be different for every kid. A common question parents ask is, ‘At what age should a child get braces?
Dr. Boris Pinhasov, a board-certified orthodontist at BP Smiles NY, says, “The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an initial consultation by age seven. While treatment usually doesn’t start that early, it’s a good time for evaluation. Most treatments begin around ages 11 to 13 when adult teeth have erupted, allowing us to address alignment, bite, and aesthetics.”
Book a consultation with BP Smiles NY to learn more about the ideal age for your child to get braces.
What Is the Ideal Age for a Child to Get Braces?
According to the American Association of Orthodontists, the first orthodontic screening of your child should be by age seven. Orthodontists can examine your child’s teeth and jaw growth to detect dental issues before they become severe.
If your kid needs to get braces, the treatment generally starts between ages eleven and thirteen. Some kids can start getting braces between ages nine and fourteen. There can be exceptions, but orthodontists recommend getting braces within this age to increase effectiveness and reduce complications.
Why Should a Child Get Braces at the Appropriate Time?
Timely Prevention
Orthodontists can identify potential issues related to teeth alignment, jaw growth, or bite as early as age seven. Early evaluations are important for planning preventive measures. However, treatment usually begins when most adult teeth are present.
Reduced Treatment Time
Addressing orthodontic problems between the ages of 11 and 13 is beneficial. This is because it allows treatment to coincide with active growth, which can reduce the total time needed for braces
Cost-Effective Care
Starting orthodontic treatment between ages 11 and 13 can help avoid more complicated and expensive procedures later on. Problems can be corrected more easily during this period.
Lower Risk of Future Issues
Braces applied during the ideal age range help reduce the risk of future dental issues such as misalignment, tooth decay, or gum problems.
What Impacts the Age of Getting Braces?
Here are some insights into the factors impacting the ideal age for getting braces.
Permanent Teeth
The brace treatment can’t start unless your child has all the permanent teeth. Not all kids will have their permanent teeth at the same age. It greatly impacts the ideal age for getting braces. Contact our orthodontists and let them determine whether it is the ideal age for your child to get braces.
Malocclusion Type and Severity
The severity of dental spacing, bite issues, or tooth misalignment will determine the appropriate timeline for braces. If the problems are too severe, your child might need to start getting braces by the age of nine. Consult with our orthodontists to determine the ideal timeline for your child’s treatment.
Get Professional Braces Services at BP Smiles NY
Dental issues like crossbites, overcrowding, and misaligned teeth can become more complicated if left untreated, especially in children. At BP Smiles NY, we specialize in detecting oral problems and provide expert guidance to ensure your child receives braces at the ideal time for optimal results. Our advanced brace fitting services offer effective, personalized solutions to correct dental problems and set the foundation for a healthy smile.
Contact BP SMILES today to schedule an appointment at our Oakland Gardens, NY clinic and give your child the expert care they deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can baby teeth affect when my child should get braces?
Yes, baby teeth can impact when your child starts braces. Treatment is often delayed until most baby teeth have fallen out, allowing space for the permanent teeth to be guided into place. It typically occurs around ages 11 to 13.
Q: Are there alternatives to braces if my child’s teeth aren’t ready?
Yes, early orthodontic appliances or space maintainers may be used before braces to prepare the mouth for future treatment.
Q: How often should my child visit the orthodontist after braces are recommended?
Regular checkups every 6 to 12 months are common to monitor tooth development and determine the best time to start braces.
Disclaimer
This article is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult your physician for any medical concerns or before starting any treatment. Do not ignore professional medical advice due to the information read here. The authors are not responsible for any outcomes from the use of this information.
