Braces are an anticipated part of many children’s lives if their teeth are crooked. As a parent, you may be wondering when the best time to take them to the orthodontist is. According to the staff at Lamont Jacobs Orthodontics in Fairfield, OH, braces have to be fitted at the right age to be truly effective. If applied too early, they may only become an interference that causes a longer treatment window in the future.

When Should My Child Get Braces?

There’s no definitive age requirement for braces. Every child’s mouth is different. However, there are signs to look for as their teeth develop that will begin to warrant a trip to the orthodontist. If you notice blatant misalignments, gaps, or bite issues, it’s usually a sign that your child will need braces. Although teeth continue shifting through adolescence, in the case of alignment problems, they’ll likely only get worse.

If you’ve identified these issues, it’s a good idea to schedule an appointment with an orthodontist. This is usually around your child’s seventh birthday unless significant misalignment issues become an oral health problem rather than a cosmetic issue. It’s important to remember that all of your child’s adult teeth need to have come in before braces can be applied. Their adult teeth also need to settle, because if they continue to shift once braces are applied, any alignments will be undone. If you’re unsure, consult with an orthodontist to get the best assessment.

If you’re ready to take your child to their first orthodontist visit, turn to the staff at Lamont Jacobs Orthodontics. They offer braces for children, teens, and adults and provide a variety of traditional and discreet options so patients can achieve their desired smile. Call (513) 823-3143 to schedule an appointment, and visit their website and Facebook to learn about their adult orthodontics.