Millions of people are undergoing orthodontic treatment at any given time, ranging in ages as young as 7 to adult. With so many different types of treatment and techniques that seem to evolve rapidly, many people wonder what age is best for getting braces. At Briter Dental, we help patients better understand the reasons for getting orthodontic treatment and when the time may be right based on an individualized basis. While there may not be a time that is just right for everyone, there are advantages associated with orthodontic treatment at various stages of life.
Early Intervention (7-9)
It is often recommended to seek orthodontic evaluation for a child at approximately age 7. Although children usually have several primary teeth remaining, it may be possible to identify existing complications such as a cross bite or tooth crowding that may be helped with intervention. Since the jaw is still soft, it may be possible to create space for the teeth to emerge in a healthy way. Also, if there are underlying problems that suggest the potential for poor alignment or perhaps even issues that cause the child pain or difficulty eating and speaking, early orthodontic intervention can prevent these symptoms from worsening.
Even if a child does not need immediate treatment, early evaluation can help predict how the permanent teeth will eventually erupt the gums in coming years and whether braces may be necessary for the future.
Tweens and Young Teens (10-14)
This is the age when most patients undergo the orthodontic correction. By this age, most of the adult teeth have emerged and the jaw is strong enough to support long-term treatment. A large percentage of adolescents wear braces, helping many children feel more confident about a process that could take one to two years to complete. As an added advantage, older children tend to be capable of handling more responsibility with minimal parental intervention – including the care and upkeep of their braces.
Older Teens and Adults (15+)
Decades ago, very few older teens and adults underwent orthodontic treatment due to concerns about aesthetics and how a mouth full of metal would affect their social or professional lives during the treatment process. Not to mention, older patients are less likely to have time for frequent adjustments and office visits.
Today, there are orthodontic solutions that are much more discreet and require fewer visits to a dental office during the treatment process. At Briter Dental, we offer Invisalign treatment, clear, removable aligners to the treatment of minor to moderate alignment issues. These aligners are virtually invisible and can be removed when eating or brushing. That means it is easier to maintain good oral care and also continue enjoying the same foods you always have, such as hard candies or popcorn – items that are typically off limits to patients who undergo traditional orthodontic treatment.
Whether you are considering an orthodontic evaluation for your child or thinking about treatment for yourself, we here at Briter Dental are happy to help. Contact our office to find out more about orthodontic treatment at each age. We look forward to serving you soon.
For more information or to set up your appointment, contact our office today.
