Once your child loses their baby teeth and the adult teeth begin to grow, you may notice that they’re a little crooked, overlapping, or have oversized gaps. Of course, you want your children to have straight teeth and a beautiful smile, but should you wait and see if the problems correct themselves over time, or should you seek professional advice early?
Orthodontists often recommend scheduling a consultation early. Not necessarily to rush into getting braces, but just to assess the situation and to see if any issues look like they will resolve themselves as the teeth and jaw grow, or if future intervention looks more likely. Having an assessment around the age of 7 is a good idea as at that age, many permanent teeth have already erupted, and potential problems can be spotted early.
A specialist will check for problems with crowding or the spacing of teeth, crossbites, underbites, or overbites, and jaw misalignment. They’ll also be able to advise on habits such as thumb sucking and tongue thrusting that can cause issues down the line if left unchecked.
A lot of people assume braces are only for teens, but the truth is that younger kids and older adults can all benefit from treatment.
Why Age Matters in Orthodontic Treatment
In many cases, it’s good to begin work early, when the jawbone is still growing and so the teeth are more easily manipulated into a new position.
Here’s a quick breakdown of how age can affect treatment:
| Age Group | Typical Treatment Goals | Important Notes |
| 7–9 | Early interceptive care | Ideal to create needed space and jaw size issues. May need two phases of treatment |
| 10–14 | Ideal for full braces | Some types of bite correction are best during this time (growth spurt). |
| 15–18 | Late teen corrections | Usually able to achieve most bite and alignment issues at this age. Longer treatment time if delayed. Some corrections may not be possible. |
| Adults | Cosmetic and functional | Slower movement, bone density issues. Sometimes more invasive treatments needed. |
Adults have denser bone tissue, which makes tooth movement slower. That doesn’t mean results aren’t possible; it just means a little more patience may be required and there may be some limitations.
Signs Your Child Might Need Braces Early
The need for braces might be picked up during a routine dentist’s visit. But often, it’s you, as a parent, who notices a problem first.
Some warning signs include:
- Teeth that look crowded or too spaced out
- Jaws that pop, shift, or make a noise
- Regularly biting the inside of the cheek
- Problems chewing or speaking clearly
- Losing baby teeth too early or too late
- Teeth that don’t touch in the bite
- Snoring or grinding at night
- Mouth breathing
If you spot any of these warning signs, be sure to book a consultation with an orthodontist who has extensive experience in child orthodontics, such as Dr. Matthew Durschlag of San Diego Smile Pros. One early consultation can save years of complications.
Teenage Years: The Prime Window for Braces
If a phase 1 treatment is not necessary, the perfect time to get braces is between the ages of 10 to 14. It is during this period that children have acquired most of their adult teeth, yet their jawbones still have plenty of flexibility, making braces more effective and faster than they would be later in life. They understand the benefits and can take better care of aligners and retainers. They are at the ideal growth stage in life and studies show that some types of bite correction are most effective at this age.
What About Adults? Getting Braces Later in Life
But it’s not all about the kids. It’s never too late to get that perfect smile. If you missed out on the chance to have braces when you were young, why not do it now? Not only will it improve your looks and boost your confidence, but it can also help prevent jaw pain, tooth wear, and gum disease. It’s no wonder that adult orthodontics is booming.
Choosing the Right Orthodontist in San Diego
Orthodontic treatment is a big investment, financially and emotionally. So, how do you pick the right expert?
Here’s what to look for:
- Board certification
- Experience with both kids and adults
- Transparent pricing and clear treatment plans
- Positive reviews and before-and-after results
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best age for braces?
Most orthodontists agree that ages 10 to 14 offer the best window for treatment. But early evaluations should begin at age 7.
Can adults get braces, too?
Yes! Braces work at any age, though adults may experience slower results and have more dental history to consider.
Is early treatment always needed if problems are spotted by age 7?
Not always. Sometimes, we just monitor growth. But early treatment can prevent more serious issues later.
What happens if you get braces too late?
Treatment may take longer, and some issues might be harder to fix. But success is still very possible.
Are clear aligners as effective as traditional braces?
Yes, in many cases. They’re ideal for mild to moderate issues but can also work for complex cases under expert supervision.
How long do braces usually stay on?
It varies, but most treatments last between 15 and 24 months, depending on age, severity, and patient cooperation.
Conclusion
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to the best age for braces. Timing depends on growth, dental health, and individual needs. Early assessments help, but treatment can succeed at nearly any age, with the right orthodontist by your side.
San Diego residents can depend on Dr. Durschlag from San Diego Smile Pros to deliver the highest-quality orthodontic treatment. Dr. Matthew Durschlag is a board-certified orthodontist with a wealth of experience and a whole host of happy clients with beautiful smiles. His specialist skills ensure the successful treatment of even the most complex conditions, including all types of orthodontics, Invisalign, clear and metal braces, lingual braces, TADs (temporary anchorage devices), fixing open bites, crowding, overbites, surgical cases, and more!
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