When Do Kids Get Braces?

Your child is constantly changing as they grow, and it’s common for many children to have misaligned teeth as they grow up. But when should kids get braces? And how early can a child get braces?

As a parent, you want the best for your child’s dental health, but you may not know when you should take them to see an orthodontist. Read on to learn about the best time for a child to get braces and how Lazzara Orthodontics can give your child the smile of their dreams. Schedule a free consultation today!

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Why Do Kids Get Braces?

Every child’s smile is different, so there is no definite starting point for orthodontic treatment. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, children should visit an orthodontist by age 7. This is why we offer complimentary pre-orthodontic screening and monitoring appointments! 

Your child’s teeth and jaw are continuously shifting as they grow, and you may notice some dental issues developing during their childhood. Usually, by age 7, most bite misalignments will be visible enough to assess and address, if needed. Some of these conditions include:

  • Crowded teeth 
  • Overbites/underbites
  • Crossbites
  • Crooked teeth
  • Irregular bite

The majority of children do not need early orthodontic treatment. However, if we determine that your child needs more immediate guidance, early interceptive Phase One treatment can help guide their growth and development. Phase One treatment generally lasts 9-14 months. 

Phase One treatment lets us intervene with minor concerns before they become bigger issues. In fact, Phase One treatment for some crossbites can even reduce their future treatment time. Complimentary pre-orthodontic screening and monitoring let us monitor your child’s growth and development so that they can begin treatment at the right time.

young boy wearing braces happily

Best Time for Your Child to Get Braces

Children generally begin orthodontic treatment between age 9 and 14. This is usually the best age to get braces for a child because the baby teeth have fallen out and permanent teeth have emerged. The teeth, gums, and jaw are still pliable enough at this stage to get the most out of their orthodontic treatment.

Patients who have Phase One treatment typically do not start the second phase for at least a couple of years after the first Phase is completed.  During this ‘in-between phase’, Dr. Lazzara will regularly monitor the patient’s growth and development to determine when they are ready for the next step. At that point, the patient progresses into Phase Two treatment suited to their unique smile needs.

Lazzara Orthodontics offers a wide variety of orthodontic treatments. Between Invisalign, traditional metal braces, and clear braces, we will be able to find the right treatment option for your child. 

Learn how orthodontic treatment can help your child by scheduling a free consultation today!

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Get a Free Braces Consultation For Your Child in Jacksonville Beach and Nocatee/Ponte Vedra

If you’re thinking about improving your child’s smile, or if you have more questions about the average age for braces, schedule an initial consultation for your kid at Lazzara Orthodontics. 

During your free consultation, we will examine your child’s current bite and create a custom orthodontic plan for their specific needs. You can also give us a call directly at (904) 270-8750 to coordinate a time that works for you. We hope to see you and your little one soon!

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