By Aspen Dental
At What Age Should My Child Get Braces?
Are your child’s adult teeth starting to grow in? You may be wondering if they will need braces. Now maybe a good time to schedule a visit to your orthodontist. Your child should have their first orthodontic visit around the time they are 7 years old and then continue to visit periodically. This will allow the orthodontist to continually examine the way his or her teeth are developing and shifting. Then they will be able to create a more efficient treatment plan for when they will eventually have braces.
Most children begin their braces treatment around age 12. Every child is different, though, and begins treatment at different ages. The recommended time is after your child has lost all their baby teeth and all their adult teeth have grown in. That way they won’t lose any teeth during their treatment, and their jaw and adult teeth have been fully developed. Most children get traditional metal braces with brackets and wires. Your orthodontist will tighten and adjust the wire gradually whenever you go in for a checkup, and this is how your teeth become straighter. Some need headgear, but it usually only needs to be worn at night. Sometimes children are eligible for early orthodontic intervention which are dental appliances used to treat underbites, overbites, or issues with their nasal passages. Clear or ceramic braces are also an option, for those who want less visible braces.
The bottom line is that every child is unique and will benefit most from an orthodontic regimen that is designed specifically for them. If you have more questions about getting braces for your child, call or visit us at Aspen Dental.
