When Is the Right Age for Braces?

At Century City Smiles and Orthodontics, we want our patients to enjoy healthy, beautiful teeth. For some people, that means straightening is necessary. Traditional braces pull your teeth into correct alignment, making them easier to clean, preventing uneven wear, and giving you a gorgeous smile.

Although many people associate braces with adolescence, Dr. Shawn Saidian and Dr. Tania Ohebsion at Century City Smiles & Orthodontics want you to know that you’re never too old for nice, straight teeth. However, your child may be a little too young. Understanding the reasons people need braces and how your child’s jaw and teeth develop can help you know when the time is right for braces. 

Human development of teeth

You already know the general pattern: babies are born without teeth, then develop “baby teeth,” which eventually fall out and are replaced by “permanent teeth.” Throughout this process, your child’s jawbone is growing and developing.

You may wonder if it’s better to wait for all of the development to be complete before trying to adjust things so your child has strong, straight teeth throughout their life or if it’s better to influence the growth as it’s happening. The answer depends on the specific problem. 

According to the American Association of Orthodontists, “While there are many orthodontic problems that orthodontists agree are best treated after all permanent teeth have come in, early treatment can be in a patient’s best interests if their problem is one that could become more serious over time if left untreated.” 

In other words, some children have better outcomes if they get orthodontic treatment while they still have baby teeth, but in other circumstances, it’s better to wait until all of their permanent teeth are in. 

Types of issues braces correct

Most people think of braces as a way to straighten teeth, and they do that, but they can also correct a problem called malocclusion. Occlusion is a word to describe the way your top teeth and your bottom teeth fit together, and it’s sometimes called your “bite.” Malocclusion is when your teeth don’t fit together quite how they should.

If your front teeth fit slightly over your bottom teeth and your upper molars fit neatly into the grooves of your lower molars, you have proper occlusion. You have malocclusion if your bottom teeth fit over your upper teeth or your molars don’t match up.

Addressing malocclusion while your child’s teeth and jaws are still growing and changing can sometimes be easier than correcting the problem later. Another issue that may benefit from early treatment is very crowded teeth. 

Getting individual attention

The key to ensuring your child gets proper orthodontic treatment at the right time is having regular dental appointments with a provider you trust and who provides treatment suggestions based on the individual. At Century City Smiles & Orthodontics, we advise parents to bring their child in for regular dental checkups when they have teeth and to get an orthodontic checkup around the age of seven.

If you’re an adult and you’ve always wondered if you need braces, we can help you. Although some people have better outcomes with early intervention, there’s no upper age limit on having straight, healthy teeth. We are always happy to provide recommendations and offer options such as clear braces, which many adults find a better alternative. 

Schedule your appointment today to find out how we can help you enjoy lasting dental health—and a smile you feel great about!