What is the Best Age to Get Braces?
It’s normal to assume that the ideal time for orthodontic intervention is in early adolescence. After all, we tend to see teenagers wearing braces more often than younger children or adults.
While modern technology has made it possible for people of almost any age to improve their dental health, the general consensus is that braces are most effective among younger children. Let’s take a look at why this is the case and what you should do if you’re an adult who is interested in getting braces.
Starting Young
The main reason why children benefit from braces the most is because their mouths and heads are still developing. This leaves their teeth more responsive to re-alignment, so they stand to see the results of orthodontic treatment sooner. People who have stopped growing require longer treatment times and rarely see as much of a difference in the end.
When Braces are Needed
If you’re unsure as to whether or not your child should get braces, consider the following signs:
- Difficulty eating
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Protruding teeth
- Overbite or underbite
- Misplaced or crooked teeth
- Thumb sucking beyond age five
- Breathing predominantly through the mouth
The sooner you consult a medical professional, the quicker you can solve any of these issues and ensure that your little one grows up with a bright and healthy smile. As a guideline, your dentist might start discussing the need for braces when your child is around seven years old, though treatment may only be necessary closer to age ten.
Adult Braces
According to the American Association of Orthodontists, around 20% of orthodontic patients are now over the age of 18. In the past, some adults may have been averse to getting braces due to the way they looked. This was especially true among those in business environments and other settings where appearance is important.
Today, however, solutions such as invisible braces have come to provide the same teeth straightening benefits as more traditional braces, without the visual impact. You can even order a custom set of invisible aligners online from a company like ALIGNERCO and have them delivered to your doorstep. These are up to 65% cheaper than standard braces and are able to treat a variety of issues.
Benefits of Braces
In addition to improving your smile, there are numerous advantages to getting braces at any age. Having straight teeth and a correctly aligned jaw makes it easier to keep your whites pearly. Crooked and crowded teeth are prone to plaque, increasing the risk of tooth decay, gum disease and eventually, tooth loss.
Depending on your current dental issue, orthodontic treatment might also improve your speaking ability, helping you express your thoughts more clearly and confidently. Getting braces can also help with chewing and swallowing food.
Whether you’re looking to help your child get braces or you’re interested in dental treatment for yourself, it’s best to handle it sooner rather than later. This way, you can know exactly what needs to be addressed and when the ideal time is to make it happen.