Kids grow fast, and their teeth don’t always follow a perfect schedule. Some baby teeth hang on too long. Others fall out early. New teeth may come in crooked or crowded. While this might seem normal, timing matters when it comes to orthodontic care. Knowing the best age to get braces can make treatment easier, faster, and more effective. Parents often wonder when to take the first step. The answer might be sooner than expected.
Best Age to Get Braces
When Should Your Child See an Orthodontist?
Kids lose baby teeth at different times, and adult teeth don’t always grow in the way they should. Some teeth come in crooked, some shift over time, and others crowd together. Many parents start wondering when it’s the right time for braces. The truth is, the best time to bring your child to an orthodontist isn’t always when you first notice something looks off. Timing matters, and early visits can make a huge difference.
What Is the Ideal Age for a First Orthodontic Visit?
Most orthodontists recommend that children visit for an initial screening around age 7. That might sound early, especially if all the baby teeth haven’t fallen out yet. But this early check helps catch potential problems while a child’s mouth and jaw are still developing.
By age 7, most children have a mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth. This stage allows orthodontists to spot issues like crowding, bite alignment, and jaw growth problems before they become harder to manage.
Early Signs That May Call for a Visit
You don’t have to wait until age 7 if your child shows signs that something may be off.
Common signs to watch for:
-
Mouth breathing
-
Thumb sucking beyond age 5
-
Crowded or misplaced teeth
-
Teeth that don’t meet normally
-
Difficulty chewing or biting
-
Jaws that shift or make sounds
Even if everything looks fine, an orthodontist can check your child’s dental growth and give you peace of mind.
Why Early Evaluation Matters
Bringing your child in early doesn’t mean they’ll get braces right away. It just helps the orthodontist plan ahead. Some kids benefit from early treatment to guide jaw development or make space for incoming teeth. This stage is often called Phase 1 or interceptive orthodontics.
Early treatment can:
-
Reduce the need for tooth extractions
-
Improve speech and chewing
-
Help permanent teeth come in properly
-
Shorten or simplify future treatment
Delaying a checkup allows small problems to become bigger—and harder to fix. Early evaluations create options and allow time for gentle guidance if needed.
When Do Most Kids Actually Get Braces?
Even though the first visit should happen around age 7, most children don’t get braces until they’re between 10 and 14 years old. By then, most or all permanent teeth have come in, and the jaw is still growing. That’s the sweet spot for correcting bite problems and straightening teeth.
Every child develops at their own pace, so timing can vary. Some may need early treatment around age 8 or 9, while others may not need braces until their early teens.
Factors That Influence the Right Age for Braces
Every child’s dental development is unique. Several things can affect when a child should start orthodontic treatment.
Growth and Development
If a child’s jaw is growing unevenly, early treatment might help guide proper alignment.
Dental Habits
Thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, and mouth breathing can impact how teeth and jaws develop. An orthodontist can help correct these habits early.
Baby Teeth Loss
Some children lose baby teeth earlier or later than others. Braces might need to wait until the permanent teeth finish coming in.
Severity of Issues
Mild crowding or spacing may not need early treatment. But crossbites, underbites, or impacted teeth can benefit from early correction.
Common Braces Timing Questions
Is My Child Too Young for Braces?
If your child is under 10 and still has many baby teeth, full braces may not be needed yet. But an early evaluation can check their bite and jaw position and give you a clear idea of what’s coming next.
Can My Teen Still Get Braces?
Yes. In fact, the majority of orthodontic patients are between 10 and 14. Some teens even wait until high school to start. Braces still work well during this stage, though treatment may take a bit longer as jaw growth slows.
What If We Wait Too Long?
Waiting too long can make some issues harder to fix. For example, jaw alignment may be more difficult to adjust after growth plates close. It might also increase the chance of needing extractions or longer treatment.
What to Expect During the First Visit
The first orthodontic consultation is easy and informative. The orthodontist will:
-
Review your child’s dental and medical history
-
Take X-rays and photos of the teeth and jaws
-
Check how the teeth fit together
-
Create a custom plan based on your child’s needs
Even if no treatment is needed right away, your child may be placed on a growth-monitoring program. This way, the orthodontist can track their development and recommend braces when the time is right.
Why Parents Choose Glaser Orthodontics
Glaser Orthodontics offers family-focused care in Cortlandt Manor, NY. Dr. Barry Glaser is a Diamond Plus Invisalign provider and a leading voice in clear aligner treatment. He treats children, teens, and adults with options like Invisalign, braces, and remote monitoring. His office uses advanced technology to deliver efficient, comfortable care that fits today’s busy families.
Patients appreciate the friendly staff, flexible hours, and real results. Whether your child needs early guidance or is ready for braces, Glaser Orthodontics provides the support and expertise needed to help them smile with confidence.
Final Thoughts
The best age for braces isn’t always the same for every child. Start with a visit around age 7 to see how your child’s teeth and jaw are developing. Even if they don’t need treatment yet, that first appointment lays the groundwork for a healthy, straight smile in the future. Pay attention to signs of crowding, early tooth loss, or bad habits that could affect development.
When in doubt, schedule an orthodontic evaluation. Catching issues early can lead to easier and more effective treatment. Your child deserves the best start possible when it comes to their smile.
Call Glaser Orthodontics Today
Book your child’s free consultation with Glaser Orthodontics in Cortlandt Manor. Call (914) 739-6400 or visit our website to get started. We proudly serve Peekskill, Yorktown Heights, Montrose, and nearby communities. Let us help your child enjoy a healthy smile that lasts a lifetime.