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First-time parents often aren’t sure what age is appropriate for children to get braces. The best time to receive orthodontic treatment may differ from one child to another, but the guidelines below may help you determine when to consider orthodontic intervention. Consult with a dental expert for even better insight into the optimal age and treatment options for your child.

When to Get Orthodontic Evaluation

The American Association of Orthodontists ® recommends getting children evaluated for teeth straightening treatments before they turn 7 years old. By this age, their jaw has developed enough to start showing signs of an abnormal bite. This doesn't mean treatment will start right away, but it will give you an idea of what your child’s dental alignment will look like once all their permanent teeth surface.

When to Consider Early Intervention

OrthodonticsCertain conditions warrant early treatments to prevent alignment and bite problems from growing any further. These include:

  • Crowded Teeth: Teeth overlap each other on the jawline
  • Open Bite: Upper and lower front jaws do not meet and align properly
  • Overbite: Upper front teeth protrude farther than lower teeth
  • Excessive Spacing: Teeth are further apart on the jawline than they should be
  • Underbite: Lower teeth protrude beyond upper teeth

These issues may worsen and complicate orthodontic treatment as your child’s permanent teeth come in and therefore should be addressed as early as eight years of age. The dentist may employ partial braces or expanders to correct your child’s bite problems.

When to Get Comprehensive Treatment

In most cases, family dentists recommend seeking orthodontic treatment when most of your child’s permanent teeth have sprouted. The optimum age for these alignment correction strategies is between 10 and 14 years. The hardware used may vary between fixed brackets, retainers, and invisible aligners. Typically, treatment begins with fixed braces for one to two years, followed by removable retainers. However, the duration and method your child’s orthodontist prescribes will vary based on the severity of your child’s bite and alignment problems.

 

A quality family dental practice like PdC Dentistry, S.C can provide detailed insights into every step of orthodontic treatment. Serving clients throughout Prairie du Chien, WI, they offer effective tooth alignment and care solutions to adults and children alike. For further information about their services, call (608) 326-8458 or visit their website.

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