Orthodontic treatment can play a big role in achieving a healthy smile. But when is the ideal time to consider treatment, and is there a best age to start? While many associate braces with teenagers, orthodontic treatment can benefit patients of all ages, from young children to adults. Let’s delve into the ideal time for orthodontic treatment and the factors that will influence the timing and treatment plan.
Orthodontic Treatment for Children
Often, orthodontic treatment can wait until all permanent teeth have erupted, which happens around the age of 13. However, some children may benefit from earlier treatment. For that reason, the American Academy of Orthodontics (AAO) recommends bringing your child in for a consultation when they reach the age of 7. This will allow the orthodontist to identify any potential orthodontic problems that may be developing. From there, the orthodontist can make a recommendation on the ideal age to actually place the braces or aligners onto the teeth, if necessary. The best part is, this early consultation is free!
Orthodontic Treatment for Adults
While it is ideal to begin orthodontic checkups early, it’s okay if you haven’t done so. The AAO agrees that you are really never too old to get a straighter smile! In fact, one in three orthodontic patients is an adult. Adults seek orthodontic treatment for a variety of reasons, including misaligned teeth, bite problems, or teeth that have shifted due to not wearing retainers. Advancements in orthodontic technology have made treatment more comfortable and discreet. Options like clear aligners and ceramic braces offer less noticeable alternatives to traditional metal braces.
Factors that Influence Timing
Sometimes, patients — both young and older — have existing oral health concerns that must be addressed before starting orthodontic treatment. For example, if wisdom teeth are impacted or crowding other teeth, they may need to be removed first to allow room for teeth to straighten. Additionally, gum disease can damage the gums and bones that support the teeth, making it difficult to move teeth into their proper positions. Therefore, you may need to treat any gum disease before braces can be placed. Your orthodontist will work closely with your general dentist or oral surgeon to develop a comprehensive treatment plan if there are issues that need to be addressed before beginning orthodontic work.
