Parents often ask “At what age kids get braces?”. It is based on the current stage of tooth and jaw development rather than the age of your child. Although each case is unique, there are specific criteria that show the necessity for braces treatment. At Central Coast Orthodontics, we understand that taking your child to an orthodontist can be a bit scary when you don't know what is in store. Let us break it down for you.

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Early Evaluation Sets The Foundation

A child can visit an orthodontist at the age of seven. It is well-known that at this age, children usually have both baby teeth and permanent teeth. This allows orthodontists to see whether there are any problems, such as crowding, an improper bite, or problems with the development of the jaw bones. It should be noted that an early examination does not always result in the need for treatment. On the contrary, it only helps to evaluate the current situation and develop a strategy for the future. For a closer look at what that first visit involves, see when your child should first see an orthodontist.

The Best Age For Braces

Most children receive braces at the age range of 10 to 14 years old. By then, most permanent teeth have come out, while the jaw bones will still be flexible for effective treatment. This period becomes easier for the dentist to move teeth to align properly. Treatment will also be more efficient during this period and easier. However, there may be instances where it might be necessary to start the treatment earlier than the usual age bracket because of certain conditions and complications.

Why Time Is More Important For Your Orthodontic Procedure

Waiting too long to treat your dental issue will complicate the whole matter in the future. Teeth will continue growing unguided, leading to further problems such as crowding of the teeth and bad bites. In addition, the jaw may also grow unfavorably. It will be much easier if you get the orthodontic treatment at the right time.

Understanding Two-Phase Treatment

The orthodontic treatment is done in two stages. Stage one usually takes place from age 7 to 10 years. Stage one focuses on guiding the growth of the jaws and making room for the permanent teeth. The second stage begins when all the permanent teeth have grown and focuses on aligning the teeth. Generally, in most cases, timely orthodontic treatment helps in reducing both the time and difficulty level of the second stage. Early orthodontic treatment can help prevent future orthodontic complications.

The Benefits Of Early Intervention

There is a huge advantage that orthodontic early treatment could have, if the patient needs it. The bones of children are not yet fully developed, so it is much easier to guide the jawbones into proper alignment. This phase makes it possible for the orthodontist to determine the dental problem associated with particular habits like sucking the thumb and mouth breathing.

Signs Your Child May Need Braces

The signs that your kid might require orthodontic care may consist of crowded and overlapping teeth, spaces between their teeth, and an incorrect bite, either overbite or underbite. The other signs would be issues with biting, early shedding of baby teeth, and mouth breathing. Early diagnosis will ensure that you get treatment for your kid whenever necessary.

How to Tell If Your Child Needs Braces

A step-by-step guide for parents to determine whether and when their child may need orthodontic treatment.

1. 1

   Watch for warning signs

   Look for crowded or overlapping teeth, gaps, early or late loss of baby teeth, thumb sucking past age 5, mouth breathing, or a jaw that clicks or shifts to one side.

2. 2

   Schedule a first evaluation by age 7

   Book a free orthodontic evaluation around age 7, even if you don't see obvious problems. This is when a mix of baby and permanent teeth makes it easiest to catch issues early.

3. 3

   Get a professional exam and x-rays

   The orthodontist will examine your child's bite and jaw growth and may take x-rays or photos to check how permanent teeth are developing under the gums.

4. 4

   Review the recommended timeline

   Based on the exam, the orthodontist will recommend one of three paths: starting Phase One treatment now, waiting and monitoring growth with periodic check-ins, or holding off until more permanent teeth come in.

5. 5

   Start treatment when the timing is right

   If treatment is recommended, follow the orthodontist's plan, whether that's early Phase One care around age 8-9 or full braces once most permanent teeth have erupted, usually around age 11-13.

Changes In Treatment Methods

The methods used in orthodontic treatments have improved over time. Braces are a great treatment option for difficult cases. They will always give you the best results, and they are not complicated like other orthodontic treatments. Clear aligners, commonly known as Invisalign, are also a suitable treatment option. This is one of the most common orthodontic treatment options for children. The treatment is more comfortable for your children because it does not pose any infection risks, as the kids can maintain good oral health.

Food And Daily Habits During Treatment

Habits are very important factors to consider throughout the orthodontic process. For example, there are several foods to avoid for patients wearing conventional braces since these foods may affect their braces and limit their effectiveness. Among such foods are nuts, ice, raw carrots, gum, and caramel. As far as aligners go, there are no limitations on foods since aligners can be easily removed before meals. However, it is necessary to take care of oral hygiene at all times to avoid stains.

Being Physically Active When Wearing Braces

Participation in any sport or any other activities is not prohibited during orthodontic care. It is important for kids to wear mouth guards while playing any sport with braces. The aligner also acts as a mouth guard during sporting activities.

Making The Right Decision For Your Child

Where orthodontic treatment is concerned, the best time largely depends on how your child is developing and not just their age. The initial examination conducted at age 7 is a great starting point; however, most treatments are done between ages 10 and 14. In some cases, early treatment is necessary to provide proper guidance. Taking into consideration the benefits of doing things right, your process could become easier and even easier.

Families outside Santa Maria don't need to miss out either — if you're searching for an orthodontist in Lompoc, we welcome patients of every age from Lompoc at our nearby Santa Maria office.

Learn more about pediatric orthodontics at Central Coast Orthodontics, or schedule a free consult for your child today.