What is the Best age to get braces in PJ

While there is no ideal time for your child to get braces, there is a period of time when your child will be a good candidate. This varies, based on a number of factors, such as the severity of the case, the extent of treatment needed, the status of the teeth currently in the mouth, and more.

When Should My Child Start Seeing an Orthodontist?

It is usually recommended that your child get an orthodontic evaluation by the time they are around seven years old. During the orthodontic screening, the orthodontist will evaluate the status of your child’s teeth and diagnose problems that will need to be corrected. An early evaluation is recommended, as it can help to identify any oral problems that need to be corrected before braces. This can lead to shortened time for wearing braces.

Some orthodontists recommend a two phase approach, where some orthodontic treatment is performed while the child still has his or her baby teeth, using dental appliances. This is sometimes thought to shorten the treatment time of braces. However, there are also orthodontists who disagree with this approach and think that you should only start orthodontic treatment when you put braces on. Some early issues that may need correcting are extreme overcrowding, overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites.

What is the Best Age to Get Braces?

The best time for a child to get braces is when their baby teeth have fallen out and the majority of their permanent teeth have grown in. This is typically between the ages of 10 and 14. However, the exact time depends on the status of the teeth. Each person is different, so there isn’t a specific age that is best to get braces. The two main factors are that the adult teeth are present, and 12-year molars have erupted.

However, braces aren’t limited to kids. If you weren’t able to get braces as a child or didn’t need them at the time, you can certainly get them as an adult. If you are concerned with traditional metal braces being too noticeable, Invisalign is an option to consider. With Invisalign, you wear a series of clear plastic aligners that you are able to take out of your mouth to eat, drink, and brush your teeth.

Why Get Braces?

Besides fixing crooked teeth, there are a number of issues that could require getting braces:

• Teeth grinding
  Jaw alignment issues
• Prevents gum disease and tooth loss
• Decreases chance of injury

If any of these are a concern, please speak with your orthodontist to see if treatment is needed.

Speak to Your Child About Getting Braces

Chances are your child may not be incredibly thrilled about getting braces. Many children are extra self-conscious during their early teenage years, and something that changes their appearance could be a little scary to them. Let them know how common it is to get braces around their age. Point out all of their friends who have braces. You could also mention how beautiful their straight smile will be after treatment.