Orthodontics for Children: At What Age Should Kids Get Braces?

Many parents struggle with the dilemma of figuring out the best age to take their child to an orthodontic appointment for braces. Parents may also not be aware of the best type of braces to select and whether the braces are the right choice for the child in the first place. These are questions that must be sorted out because braces are not always affordable to all.

With that in mind, parents also need to be aware of what it takes to care for the braces once they are installed into their child’s teeth. Fortunately, we have completed research on this topic to answer these important questions. We spoke to Dr. Angelina Y. C. Loo who cleared up a lot of the questions pertaining to braces for children.

Firstly, keep in mind that no two children are the same, even within the same family. Therefore, you should cater to the needs of your child specifically, as dental-related issues are more than likely subjective. Braces are no different because some children may require braces at an earlier age than others would. Furthermore, some children may not require braces at all, especially because oral health care, as well as genetics, are determining factors in the need for braces.

The Reason Children Need Braces

Braces are not just about the aesthetic or straightening crooked teeth. Braces can play a significant role in the life of your child. Your child’s overall health and well-being can be impacted by braces. In most cases, your child would need braces because of, finger sucking, late or early loss of baby teeth, poor oral habits, mouth breathing, trouble biting or chewing, difficult speech, biting the cheek or roof of the mouth, blocked out teeth, teeth crowding, misplaced teeth, protruding teeth, teeth grinding, and the list goes on.

Does Your Child Need Braces?

Remember that when your child’s first set of teeth falls out, the adult teeth take their place. Some children have crooked teeth because the adult teeth starts to grow at an angle. The adult teeth may not always grow straight and in the correct place. Braces serve the purpose of straightening your child’s teeth.

It is important to have your child checked out by an orthodontist to make sure that they do indeed need braces. It is not always possible to tell just by looking at it. If you notice that your child has crooked teeth then you should visit an orthodontist to be evaluated as soon as possible.

Taking your child to the Orthodontist?

According to the American Academy of orthodontists, you should take your child for a visit before the age of 7. An orthodontist can evaluate your child oral habits, airway, and bite. The orthodontist will be able to give you information about whether braces are needed or other treatments are available.

Even though it is a good practice to take your child to the orthodontist before the age of 7, most children do not get braces until they are around 9 years old. Between the ages of 9 and 14 is when many children’s braces are installed. Keep in mind that your child may have side effects of the braces. There is no one-size-fits-all. The braces should be specifically suited to your child’s needs. The alternative will be able to tell you how long the corrective treatment is needed as well as all the possible side effects.

The Best Age for Braces

Even though most children have braces installed between the ages of 9 and 14 this does not mean that it is too late to have is done after bedtime. Adults may also benefit from having braces installed. Generally, braces are possible as long as someone has acquired adult teeth. In a few rare cases, an orthodontist may suggest that braces be installed before the age of 9. This may be because the baby teeth have fallen out.

Orthodontic Treatment for Children

Navigating the world of orthodontic treatment may be a difficult task for some parents. If you want your child to have a great smile it is probably because you understand the social and health benefits of straight teeth. It is important to consult your alternative or the most reliable and up-to-date information on orthodontic treatment for your child.

Children vary when it comes to the length of time the braces need to stay in. However, most people used braces for 18 to 36 months. Between 2 and 3 years is a safe average, but you need to take your child for regular checkups in case anything changes. You also need to make sure that the braces are working and everything is on track. Taking your child to regular checkups at the dentist will also reduce the amount of side effects that come with braces. These are issues like allergic reactions, tooth decay, and the repositioning of the teeth.

To Sum it Up

You should think of braces as the last stop in addressing your child’s dental issues. However, braces play a critical role and straightening your child’s teeth while reducing the risk of serious orthodontic issues.