While it may seem like the best time to get orthodontic care is when your child first gets his or her teeth, this isn’t always possible. In fact, there are many factors that will determine which phase you need braces in and what age you should start at whether he/she has already lost some baby bridges because their mouth hasn’t grown yet.
THE IDEAL AGE FOR BRACES
When it comes to orthodontic care, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. The best age to get braces depends on a number of factors, including the severity of the problem and the type of braces that will be used.
In general, baby teeth are not considered good candidates for braces, as they are typically only in place for a few years before being replaced by permanent teeth. For this reason, most orthodontists recommend waiting until all of the permanent teeth have come in before starting treatment. This usually occurs around age 12 or 13.
However, there are some cases where it may be recommended to start treatment earlier, such as when baby teeth are blocking permanent teeth from coming in correctly. Ultimately, the decision about when to start orthodontic treatment should be made by an orthodontist after a thorough examination.
EARLY ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT
While the ideal time for orthodontic treatment is around age 12-14, early intervention can be beneficial in some cases. The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that kids see an orthodontic specialist for the first time no later than age 7. This allows the orthodontist to identify any potential problems early on and develop a treatment plan accordingly.
In some cases, early treatment may be necessary to prevent more serious problems from developing later on. For example, if a child has severe crowding in their teeth, early intervention can help to prevent the need for tooth extractions down the road. While early treatment is not always necessary, it can be helpful in some cases. If you have any concerns about your child’s dental development, it is best to get orthodontic consultation.
Early orthodontic treatment may mean wearing a retainer. It may also include:
- If your child begins orthodontic treatment early, they may only need to wear a retainer for a short period of time.
- Early treatment may also include wearing a growth modifying appliance, which can help your child’s teeth grow incorrectly.
- Another option is wearing a palatal expander to create more room in your child’s mouth – this can be especially helpful if their jaw is too small or their teeth are crowded.
- Partial braces are another option – they work quickly and are less noticeable than traditional braces.
Early orthodontic care is essential for the success of later treatments. Braces work by correcting fundamental underlying structural issues that are present at an early age, which helps them straighten teeth and fix alignment much more quickly than if they were treated later on in life when issues may have already developed into larger problems with less chance to make corrections before it’s too late.
ADULTS CAN ALSO GET BRACES
While many adults opt to get braces in pursuit of a flawless smile, there are other benefits to having straight teeth and a properly aligned jaw. According to AAO statistics, adults account for about 20% of orthodontic patients. And while some may think that it’s better to get braces during adolescence, the truth is that adults from all walks of life are learning that age is just a number when it comes to receiving and benefiting from orthodontic treatment.
There are a number of different treatment options available for adults teeth, which means that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Invisalign, for example, is a popular choice for busy professionals who want to straighten their teeth without having to deal with the hassle of traditional braces.
Although the time it takes to complete the treatment varies from patient to patient, the average adult can expect to see results within 12 months. So if you’re considering orthodontic treatment, don’t let age hold you back. Talk to your doctor about the best option for you and you could be on your way to a straighter smile in no time.
