When do kids get braces: An easy guide to the ages from 7–14

When it comes to early orthodontic treatment for kids and to get that beautiful smile, timing is everything. Getting braces in the wrong age can have a negative impact on how they grow and develop. Fortunately, the right time to get braces is different for every kid. That said, not all kids are ready at the same time with their growing and developing years. Some might need early intervention before their permanent teeth come out so that they can avoid any problems down the line. Read on to learn more about when do kids get braces.

What is the right age to get braces?

There isn’t a specific age at which your child will need braces. It will depend on the severity of their dental issues and how quickly they progress. American Association of Orthodontists recommends that the initial orthodontic evaluation should occur at early age of 7. The average age for children to start needing braces is 10, but it’s important to know your child’s specific situation. If you’re not sure, schedule an appointment with pediatric dentist and they’ll be able to assess the situation and recommend early treatment as necessary.

If your child has good oral hygiene, they’ll have a better chance of having their baby teeth fall out and their adult teeth grow in healthy. If your child’s hygiene is poor or if there are other factors at play (see below), then now may not be the best time for braces. Additionally, if your child has loose teeth, they might be ready for braces; however, if their teeth are tight and have not yet fallen out or have not even emerged yet, then the chances of needing braces are probably slim.

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Why does my child need braces?

Braces are used to correct a variety of dental issues and orthodontic problems. Here are few reason for braces on teeth -

• Misalignment — If your child’s teeth aren’t aligned, they’re more likely to experience tooth decay. They may also have difficulty chewing their food properly and speaking clearly.
• Overcrowding — If your child’s mouth is small mouth and teeth, or if they’ve experienced rapid growth, their teeth could be overcrowded. Crowded teeth
• can make it difficult for them to clean their teeth properly, and it can also make it uncomfortable to eat certain foods.
• Underdeveloped teeth — Some children are born with underdeveloped teeth, which is why it’s important to go in for regular dental visits.
• Tissue abnormalities — If your child’s gum line is receding, it could be due to gum disease such as gingivitis. This can also be an indication of Psoriasis, an autoimmune disorder, or cystic fibrosis.

How to Know if Your Kid Needs Braces

First, it is important to establish whether or not your child’s teeth are ready for traditional braces. The first thing to remember when deciding whether your child needs braces is that any condition that causes misalignment of teeth can be treated with orthodontic treatment. The most common causes of tooth decay are poor oral hygiene and diet, as well as genetic conditions like Down syndrome or cleft lip or palate. Other problems can include injury or illness that affects the alignment of the jaw and teeth, such as a severe infection. If your child has any of these issues, it’s definitely worth considering braces.

However, if your child has healthy teeth and gums, and is otherwise healthy, there’s no need to rush out and get braces right away. Take the time to talk to your dentist about your child’s mouth and check for any early signs of tooth decay, such as a change in the way your child chews (such as an increase in bruxism) or discolored teeth. If you notice any changes, make sure you take action right away so that your child doesn’t develop cavities. One thing you should never do is put pressure on your child to get them to smile more often because it only encourages bad habits like excessive chewing and grinding.

Age 7–9 years of age — Sometimes You Can Fix Baby Teeth

If your child’s baby teeth are misaligned, you may be able to do something about it before the permanent teeth come in. However, if you’re going to do so, you’ll need to act quickly, around the time the permanent teeth begin to erupt (which happens between the ages of seven and nine). If you wait until the eruption of the permanent teeth, you might have to go for braces. In this case, your child may need to wear braces for a year. If you correct the misalignment of the baby teeth, it should correct the misalignment of the permanent teeth.

Age 9–10: Timing Is Everything

If your child’s permanent teeth aren’t ready but the baby teeth are misaligned, you may be able to go through with a corrective procedure. If you do go through with the treatment options, it is recommended that you do so before your child’s 10th birthday. This is because any correction applied after the 10th birthday could affect the growth of the permanent teeth. If you go through with the procedure, your child may need to wear a retainer once their permanent teeth have erupted. In this case, your child will have to wear a retainer for about a year.

Age 11–12: You Can Fix Crooked Teeth With Braces

If your child’s permanent teeth are ready but misaligned, you can go through with a orthodontic care. If you go through with the procedure, it is recommended that you do so before your child’s 12th birthday. This is because any correction applied after the 12th birthday could affect the growth of the permanent teeth.

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Age 12+: You’ll Need a Soft Tissue Repair Before Braces

If your child’s permanent teeth are ready but misaligned, and they are between the ages of 12 and 18, they will need a soft tissue repair before they get braces. If you go through with the procedure, it is recommended that you do so before your child’s 18th birthday.

Summary

If your child has orthodontic issues, getting them braces can be a great idea. When do kids get braces largely depend their Oral health. Ideally your child’s first orthodontic visit should be at the age of 7. Meanwhile, you can also help your children maintain good oral health by being extra diligent about your habits. Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and check-ups, and make sure your kids do the same.

Originally published at https://www.colossalumbrella.com on October 11, 2022.