Braces are an oral care enhancement many children will experience. These orthodontic devices can resolve a variety of oral health issues, and you want to be confident they’re addressed early on. Each mouth is different; however, there are general rules of thumb for when it’s best for treatment to begin.

What Conditions Do Braces Treat?

Braces can address a number of alignment issues in children. From minor gaps to bite misalignments and jaw issues, they can be used to achieve a straight, even smile that improves your child’s general comfort, as well as their ability to speak and eat. How long they need to wear them will depend on the extent of the issue, which is why you should speak with an orthodontist if you notice these alignment problems and have concerns.

When Is the Best Time to Get Braces?

In general, you should visit an orthodontist if alignment issues appear while your child’s adult teeth come in. This is usually around their seventh birthday, though it may be later. You want to minimize the impact on other teeth that are coming in to prevent shifting and additional problems. A few signs you should look out for include frequent finger sucking, mouth breathing, difficulty chewing, and over/underbites. An orthodontist will determine the best course of action so that your child enjoys a white, even smile. If your child is interested in clear aligners, they’ll need to wait until they’re older, as these may interfere with how the mouth naturally develops.

Since 1993, orthodontist Dr. Deborah L. Schafer, DDS, MS, of Wayland, NY, has been proud to provide comprehensive orthodontic care to patients of all ages. She can treat a variety of conditions ranging from general misalignments to bruxism, and she takes a personalized approach to each patient to achieve the best results. Whether you’re interested in braces for your child or yourself, call (585) 728-3830 to schedule an exam. You can also visit her website to learn more about her practice and services.