When’s the Best Age To Get Braces?

Determining the right time to start orthodontic treatment can be a big decision. You want to ensure your child gets the care they need, but you also want to ensure it’s at the most effective time for them. 

We understand these concerns and are here to help you navigate the timing of braces, ensuring your child’s smile is beautiful and healthy for life. Dr. William Krieg, Dr. Brynn Jezdimir, Dr. Richard Frenchi, and Dr. Andrew Daabous at LakePointe Orthodontics have treated countless patients, and their experience helps guide families in making the right choices.

Why Age Matters in Orthodontic Treatment

There’s no magic number for when every child should get braces, but age plays a significant role in how effective treatment can be. Here’s why:

Growth spurts

Children experience significant growth between the ages of 9 and 14. Orthodontists often aim to take advantage of this natural growth period to align teeth and adjust jaw positioning more easily.

Early detection

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that a child should have their first orthodontic checkup by 7-years-old. This early evaluation helps identify potential issues and prevents more serious problems from developing later on.

Permanent teeth

By age 12, most children have all or most of their permanent teeth, which is often an ideal time for braces.

Starting treatment at the right age can lead to more effective results and sometimes even shorten your child’s time in braces. Remember that every child is unique—what works for one may not work for another. That’s why a personalized consultation with LakePointe Orthodontics is so valuable.

Signs Your Child Might Need Braces

How do you know when it’s time to start thinking about braces for your child? Several signs may indicate a need for orthodontic treatment. While you might not spot everything, there are a few telltale signs that are easy to recognize.

  • If your child’s teeth are growing in at odd angles, or there’s noticeable crowding, it may be a sign that braces are needed.
  • Struggles with eating can indicate misalignment issues.
  • This can sometimes be linked to jaw development issues, which braces may help correct.
  • A sign of bite problems that could worsen without orthodontic intervention.
  • While less common, discomfort in the jaw area can suggest an underlying orthodontic issue.

If you’ve noticed any of these signs, it might be time to schedule a visit to LakePointe Orthodontics at our St. Clair Shores office. Dr. Krieg, Dr. Jezdimir, Dr. Frenchi, and Dr. Daabous can assess your child’s needs and recommend the best course of action.

When’s the Best Age To Get Braces?

How Jaw Growth Affects Braces Timing

Jaw growth plays a big role in determining when braces might be needed, and it’s an important factor that many parents overlook. Let’s take a closer look.

Upper Jaw Development

The upper jaw typically stops growing earlier than the lower jaw, often around age 10 in girls and slightly later in boys. If issues like an overbite or crossbite are present, addressing them before the upper jaw growth is complete can lead to better results.

Lower Jaw Development

The lower jaw continues to grow into the teenage years. If your child has an underbite or another lower jaw alignment issue, it’s often best to wait until closer to the end of jaw growth to start braces.

Our doctors and team at LakePointe Orthodontics carefully monitor jaw growth to ensure that braces are timed perfectly, taking advantage of growth spurts when possible.

Why Some Kids Need Braces Earlier Than Others

It’s not uncommon for some children to get braces at the age of 8 or 9 , while others might not need them until their teenage years. There are several reasons why some kids start treatment earlier:

  • In some cases, early signs of dental or jaw misalignment are clear by age 7, making early treatment beneficial.
  • Early braces can sometimes prevent more extensive treatment later on, correcting issues before they become severe.
  • Severe bite problems are harder to correct down the road.

Each child’s needs are unique, and at LakePointe Orthodontics in St. Clair Shores, we take the time to evaluate these needs thoroughly.

The Long-Term Benefits of Early Braces

While some parents worry about starting orthodontic treatment too early, there are many long-term benefits when appropriate. Here are just a few ways early braces can help your child down the line:

  • Prevents more serious issues: Early treatment can prevent conditions like overcrowding or severe bite misalignment, reducing the need for surgery or other intensive treatments later.
  • Improves oral health: Straight teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of cavities, gum disease, and other oral health problems.
  • Boosts self-esteem: Let’s face it—kids today can be self-conscious about their appearance, and braces help them gain confidence with a smile they’re proud of.

It’s all about setting your child up for long-term success. We work closely with families to ensure each child gets the necessary care at the right time.

When’s the Best Age To Get Braces?

Let’s Figure Out Your Child’s Orthodontic Needs Now

Don’t wait and waste time—contact our LakePointe Orthodontics team today to schedule your child’s consultation. It’s never too early to start planning for a lifetime of beautiful smiles!