Braces for kids are a major milestone, but when should your child start treatment? In celebration of Children’s Dental Health Month, we are exploring when parents should consider seeing an orthodontist to discuss braces for their children.
There are many reasons why children may need braces. Whether they have crooked, overlapping, or overcrowded teeth, getting a child’s smile in line can make a world of difference. Many parents don’t realize that braces aren’t just about how a child looks. Misaligned teeth are also associated with poor dental outcomes. Crooked teeth are also harder to care for, impacting dental hygiene and oral health. In some cases, misalignment can also impact chewing and speech.
When it comes to getting braces, the right time is when your orthodontist recommends it. And the best way to find out is by ensuring your child is seen by a professional early in life.
What Age Do Kids Usually Get Braces?
It is common for children to start braces treatment between the ages of 9 and 13 as this is the age range when their permanent teeth come in. Of course, that doesn’t mean you should wait until your kid is 9 to start thinking about orthodontic care, as each child is different and has different orthodontic needs. In fact, starting early orthodontic treatment can lead to better treatment outcomes.
Start With an Initial Visit
Children should see an orthodontist by age 7, so they can start early orthodontic treatment if necessary. This doesn’t mean a child will be ready for braces at this age, but because children develop differently, getting checked out can help orthodontists spot issues before they worsen. For example, an orthodontist may be able to see early if a child has jaw growth issues.
Early treatment can help prevent more severe or arduous issues. After the first visit, an orthodontist can give parents instructions, such as suggesting when parents should bring their kids back in or if kids should begin treatment already.
Get a Head Start on Your Child’s Oral Health
Getting your child braces is a big decision, but it’s one that you shouldn’t delay. By reaching out to Advanced Orthodontic Care, parents in Denver, Cherry Creek, Stapleton, and surrounding areas in Colorado can help their children get personalized treatment whenever they need it.
Our kid-friendly office is led by Dr. Robert Rudman, who has decades of experience practicing orthodontia. Along with Dr. Jeff Birg, a certified orthodontics specialist, our team helps patients of all ages get happy, healthy smiles.
Our team will be happy to help families through the process of getting braces. You can call us at 303-632-9766. You can also use our contact page to request a visit! We look forward to seeing you!