If you’ve noticed your child’s teeth coming in crooked or their bite looking a bit off, you’re probably wondering about the right timing for braces. It’s one of the most common questions we hear at Oasis Orthodontics, and for good reason. Getting the timing right can make a real difference in how smoothly treatment goes and what kind of results you’ll see.
The truth is, there’s no single “perfect” age that works for every child. Some kids might benefit from early intervention while they still have baby teeth, while others do better waiting until most of their permanent teeth have come in. Let’s walk through what you need to know about timing, what to watch for, and how to figure out the best approach for your child’s unique situation.
Understanding the Recommended Age Range for Braces
Most orthodontists recommend that children have their first orthodontic evaluation around age 7. This doesn’t mean your 7-year-old will definitely need braces right away. Think of it more like a checkup to see how things are developing and whether any early concerns need attention.
When it comes to actually getting braces, the best age for braces for kids typically falls between 9 and 14 years old. This braces age range works well because children usually have most or all of their permanent teeth by this point, but their jaws are still growing and more responsive to treatment. The bones haven’t fully hardened yet, which means teeth can be moved more easily than they can in adults.
That said, we sometimes recommend starting treatment earlier or later depending on what we find during the orthodontic evaluation. Some children benefit from what’s called phase 1 treatment (early intervention) around ages 6 to 10, while others do fine waiting until they’re 12 or 13.
Why Early Orthodontic Evaluation Matters
You might wonder why we suggest bringing kids in for an orthodontic consultation at age 7 if they’re not ready for braces yet. Here’s the thing: by this age, children have a mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth, which gives us a clear picture of how everything is developing.
A pediatric orthodontist evaluation age 7 allows us to spot potential problems early. We can see if the jaw is growing properly, whether there’s enough space for permanent teeth to come in, and if the bite is developing correctly. Sometimes we find issues that are much easier to address now than they would be later, like crossbites, severe crowding, or problems with jaw growth.
Early orthodontic treatment doesn’t always mean braces right away. It might involve other appliances like a palate expander to create more room in the mouth, or retainers to guide teeth into better positions. These interceptive orthodontics approaches can actually make later treatment with braces shorter and more effective.
Can Kids Get Braces at 7 Years Old?
Can kids get braces at 7? Yes, they can, though it’s not super common. When we do recommend braces for younger children, it’s usually because we’ve identified a specific problem that needs attention right away.
Early treatment might be necessary if your child has a severe overbite or underbite, significant crowding that’s affecting how permanent teeth come in, or crossbites that could impact jaw development. In these cases, addressing the issue early can prevent more serious problems down the road and may reduce the need for tooth extractions or jaw surgery later.
However, most 7-year-olds aren’t quite ready for full braces. They still have many baby teeth, and those teeth need to fall out naturally to make room for permanent ones. Starting braces too early when baby teeth are still loose can complicate treatment and make it harder to achieve good results.
Are Braces Appropriate for 9 Year Olds?
Are braces appropriate for 9 year olds? This is right at the beginning of that ideal age range, and many children do start treatment around this time. By age 9, most kids have lost their front baby teeth and have several permanent teeth that have erupted.
At this age, we’re looking at whether there’s enough space in the mouth for all the permanent teeth that haven’t come in yet. If we see severe crowding or alignment issues that will only get worse, we might recommend starting with braces or other orthodontic appliances. The jaw is still growing, which means we can work with that growth to guide teeth into better positions.
Some children at this age might start with phase 1 treatment using partial braces or other appliances. This early intervention can address specific problems while we wait for more permanent teeth to come in. Then, once they’re a bit older and have more permanent teeth, they might need a second phase of treatment to fine-tune everything.
Common Signs Your Child May Need Braces
So how do you know if and when should kids get braces? There are several signs child needs braces that you can watch for, even before that first orthodontic visit.
Bite Problems
One of the most obvious indicators is an overbite, where the upper front teeth stick out too far over the lower teeth. The opposite problem, an underbite, happens when the lower teeth and jaw protrude in front of the upper teeth. Both of these malocclusion issues can affect how your child eats, speaks, and even breathes. If left untreated, they can lead to jaw pain and uneven wear on tooth enamel.
Crowded or Crooked Teeth
When you look at your child’s smile, do the teeth overlap each other or twist at odd angles? Crowded teeth happen when there’s not enough room in the jaw for all the permanent teeth to fit properly. This isn’t just a cosmetic issue. Crowded teeth are harder to clean effectively, which increases the risk of cavities and gum disease.
Gaps Between Teeth
While small gaps between baby teeth are normal and even helpful, large or persistent tooth gaps between permanent teeth might need attention. These spaces can affect bite alignment and make it easier for food to get stuck, potentially leading to gum problems.
Trouble with Daily Functions
Does your child have difficulty chewing certain foods or do they frequently bite their cheek or the roof of their mouth? These functional problems often indicate alignment issues that braces can correct. Some children also develop speech difficulties because of how their teeth fit together.
Mouth Breathing
Persistent mouth breathing can be a sign of airway development issues or structural problems with the jaw and teeth. When airways are restricted, children naturally breathe through their mouths instead of their noses. This can affect facial growth patterns and tooth alignment. If you notice your child consistently breathing through their mouth, especially during sleep, it’s worth discussing with an orthodontist.
Early or Late Loss of Baby Teeth
Do baby teeth affect need for braces? They actually can. If your child loses baby teeth very early (before age 5 or 6), the surrounding teeth might drift into that space, leaving less room for permanent teeth to come in properly. On the flip side, baby teeth loss that happens much later than usual can also cause alignment problems as permanent teeth try to emerge.
Jaw Sounds or Pain
If you hear clicking, popping, or grinding sounds when your child opens and closes their mouth, or if they complain about jaw pain, these could be signs of a bite problem that needs evaluation. These symptoms shouldn’t be ignored, as they can worsen over time and lead to more serious issues with the jaw joint.
How Long Do Kids Wear Braces
One of the first questions parents ask after learning their child needs braces is about treatment duration. How long do children wear braces on average? Most kids wear braces for 18 to 24 months, though the exact timeline depends on several factors.
The complexity of the alignment issues plays a big role. Simple spacing problems or minor crowding might only need 12 to 15 months of treatment. More complex cases involving severe malocclusion, significant crowding, or jaw growth issues might take closer to 2 to 3 years.
The type of braces also matters. Traditional metal braces are generally the most efficient for moving teeth, while clear aligners or ceramic braces might take slightly longer for certain types of corrections. Your orthodontist will give you a more specific treatment plan and timeline based on your child’s individual needs.
How well your child follows instructions also affects treatment duration. Wearing rubber bands as directed, avoiding foods that can damage braces, and keeping up with good oral hygiene with braces all help treatment stay on track. Missing appointments or breaking brackets can add weeks or months to the overall timeline.
Types of Braces Available for Children
When you think about braces for kids, you might picture traditional metal brackets and wires. While those are still the most common and effective option, there are actually several types to consider.
Metal Braces
Traditional metal braces are the tried-and-true workhorses of orthodontics. They’re made of high-grade stainless steel and consist of brackets bonded to each tooth, connected by a wire that gradually moves teeth into place. Many kids actually enjoy choosing colorful elastic bands to personalize their braces. Metal braces are usually the most cost-effective option and work well for even the most complex alignment issues.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces work just like metal ones, but the brackets are made of clear or tooth-colored ceramic material that blends in with the teeth. They’re less noticeable than metal braces, which some older kids and teens appreciate. The downside is they’re slightly more fragile and typically cost a bit more. They’re a good middle ground for kids who want something less visible but still need the effectiveness of traditional braces.
Clear Aligners
For certain cases, clear aligners might be an option. These removable trays gradually shift teeth over time. They’re nearly invisible and can be taken out for eating and brushing. However, they only work for mild to moderate alignment issues, and they require discipline since kids need to wear them 20 to 22 hours a day. For younger children who might lose or forget to wear them, traditional braces are usually the better choice.
Understanding Early Intervention and Phase 1 Treatment
Sometimes we recommend what’s called phase 1 treatment or early intervention before a child has all their permanent teeth. This proactive approach addresses specific problems while the child is still growing, making later treatment easier and sometimes shorter.
Phase 1 treatment typically happens between ages 6 and 10. During this time, we might use appliances like a palate expander to widen the upper jaw and create more space for permanent teeth. This expansion is much easier to do while the child is young and their jaw bones haven’t fully fused together.
Other phase 1 options include partial braces on just the front teeth to correct a severe overbite or underbite, or special appliances to help guide jaw growth in the right direction. We might also use retainers to hold space for permanent teeth that haven’t come in yet or to guide baby teeth out when they’re not falling out on their own.
After phase 1 treatment, there’s usually a resting period where we monitor permanent teeth eruption and jaw growth. Then, when your child is older and has more permanent teeth (usually around age 11 to 14), they might need phase 2 treatment with full braces to fine-tune tooth positioning and bite alignment.
What Happens During an Orthodontic Consultation
At what age should my child see an orthodontist? We recommend that initial visit by age 7, but you can schedule a consultation anytime if you have concerns. Here’s what to expect during that first appointment.
We’ll start with a comprehensive examination of your child’s teeth, jaw, and bite. This includes checking how the upper and lower teeth fit together, looking for signs of crowding or spacing issues, and evaluating jaw growth patterns. We’ll also take dental X-rays to see teeth that haven’t emerged yet and to assess the roots and bone structure.
Digital imaging helps us create a detailed treatment plan. These pictures and scans let us show you exactly what we’re seeing and explain what treatment options might work best. We’ll discuss timing, whether your child needs treatment now or if we should monitor their development, and what types of appliances or braces might be appropriate.
This is also your chance to ask questions about braces cost, treatment duration, and what to expect throughout the process. We want you to feel fully informed and comfortable with whatever we recommend. If treatment isn’t needed right away, we’ll schedule follow-up visits to monitor your child’s development and catch any emerging issues early.
Preparing Your Child for Braces
Once you’ve decided to move forward with braces, there are some things you can do to help your child feel ready and positive about the process.
Talk openly about what braces do and why they’ll help. Focus on the benefits, like a healthier smile and straighter teeth they’ll have for life. Many kids worry about pain or how braces will look, so address these concerns honestly. Yes, there might be some discomfort, especially right after getting braces or after adjustments, but it’s temporary and manageable.
Let your child know that lots of their friends probably have or will have braces too. It’s incredibly common, and in many schools, it’s almost a rite of passage. If your child is particularly nervous, see if your orthodontist can arrange a tour of the office beforehand or show them pictures of what the braces will look like.
Stock up on foods that will be easier to eat in the first few days after getting braces. Soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, smoothies, and soup will be more comfortable while your child adjusts. Also, pick up some orthodontic wax to help prevent irritation from the brackets rubbing against cheeks and lips.
Caring for Braces and Maintaining Oral Hygiene
Good oral hygiene with braces is crucial for successful treatment and keeping teeth healthy. Braces create more places for food and plaque to hide, so your child will need to be extra diligent about cleaning their teeth.
Brushing should happen after every meal and snack, not just twice a day. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, angling the brush to clean around brackets and under wires. An electric toothbrush can make this easier and more effective. Don’t forget to brush along the gum line and on the chewing surfaces of teeth.
Flossing becomes more challenging with braces, but it’s just as important. Special floss threaders or orthodontic flossers can help get the floss under the wires and between teeth. Some families find that water flossers (like a Waterpik) are easier for kids to use and just as effective at removing food particles and plaque.
Regular dental check-ups and cleanings should continue throughout orthodontic treatment. Your dentist will check for cavities and gum problems that can develop if oral hygiene slips. They’ll also do professional cleanings to remove any plaque or tartar buildup that brushing and flossing miss.
Foods to Avoid with Braces
Part of taking care of braces means being careful about what your child eats. Some foods can damage brackets or get stuck in the wires, which can extend treatment time and lead to extra appointments for repairs.
Hard foods are the main culprits. Things like hard candy, nuts, ice, and popcorn kernels can break brackets or bend wires. Chewy or sticky foods like caramel, taffy, gum, and gummy candies can pull brackets off teeth or get hopelessly stuck in the wires. Even seemingly innocent foods like whole apples, corn on the cob, or crusty bread can cause problems if not cut into smaller pieces first.
Sugary foods and drinks should be limited anyway for dental health, but they’re especially problematic with braces. The sugar feeds bacteria that create acid, which can lead to white spots (early decay) on teeth around the brackets. If your child does have something sweet, make sure they brush their teeth soon afterward.
Special Considerations for Younger Children
If your child needs treatment on the younger end of the age range, there are some additional factors to consider. Younger children are still developing their ability to brush and floss effectively, so they might need more supervision and help with oral hygiene. Make sure your child can be responsible about caring for their braces before starting treatment.
Cooperation is another important factor. Braces require wearing rubber bands, avoiding certain foods, and keeping regular appointments. If your child isn’t quite ready to follow these instructions, it might be better to wait a bit longer. A slightly older child who can follow directions well will often have a smoother, more successful treatment experience than a younger child who struggles with compliance.
Sports and other activities need to be considered too. Active kids should wear a mouthguard to protect their braces and teeth during contact sports or activities where facial injuries are possible. Some musical instruments (particularly wind instruments) might require a brief adjustment period, but most kids adapt quickly.
Making the Right Decision for Your Child
Deciding when to start orthodontic treatment is a partnership between you, your child, and your orthodontist. Every child’s situation is unique, and what works for one family might not be right for another.
Consider your child’s physical development, emotional readiness, and ability to maintain good oral hygiene. Think about family logistics too, like whether you can commit to regular orthodontist appointments and whether your child’s schedule allows for the necessary care and attention.
Trust the expertise of your orthodontic team. We’ve seen thousands of cases and can provide guidance based on years of experience and training. At the same time, you know your child best. If you have concerns or feel the timing isn’t right, speak up. The goal is a treatment plan that sets your child up for success.
Moving Forward with Confidence
Making decisions about your child’s orthodontic care can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. The team at Oasis Orthodontics is here to guide you through every step of the process.
Whether your child is 7, 10, 13, or somewhere in between, we’ll provide a thorough evaluation and honest recommendations about timing and treatment options. We’ll explain everything in clear terms, answer all your questions, and create a treatment plan that fits your child’s needs and your family’s situation.
Remember, the goal isn’t just straighter teeth. It’s about setting your child up for a lifetime of good oral health, proper function, and confidence in their smile. With the right timing, the right treatment approach, and good care throughout the process, we can help your child achieve those goals.
If you’re wondering whether it’s time for your child to see an orthodontist, or if you have questions about any aspect of orthodontic treatment, we invite you to schedule a consultation. We’ll take the time to evaluate your child’s unique situation and discuss the best path forward. Your child’s healthy, beautiful smile is worth the investment, and we’re here to help make that journey as smooth and successful as possible.