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. Before starting braces, it’s important to address any dental conditions, such as cavities or gum issues, to ensure the best results. A dentist will typically perform an initial assessment of your child’s oral health and may refer your child to an orthodontist if orthodontic treatment is needed. 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!

It’s always best to consult a dentist or orthodontist to determine the right timing and approach for your child’s braces.

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Why Do Kids Get Orthodontic Treatment with 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
  • Bad bites

Braces can help correct problems such as dental problems, jaw problems, and orthodontic problems, improving how the teeth fit together.

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, including jaw growth, so that we can address potential issues early and your child can begin treatment at the right time.

young boy wearing braces happily

Best Time for Your Child to Get Traditional 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. Braces work by applying gentle, constant pressure to gradually move teeth into better alignment over time.

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 , , and clear braces, we will be able to find the right treatment option for your child. Tooth colored ceramic braces are also available for those seeking a more discreet option. Treatment plans are carefully designed to address both upper teeth and lower teeth, ensuring proper jaw alignment and optimal results.

Braces cost can vary depending on the type of braces chosen and the complexity of the case. Families with multiple family members needing orthodontic care may benefit from coordinated treatment plans for added convenience and potential cost savings. Not everyone needs to wear braces; the decision to wear braces depends on individual dental needs and the recommendation of your orthodontist.

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

Learn More About Treatment Options

Learn More About Treatment Options

Types of Dental Braces for Kids

When it comes to orthodontic treatment for children, there are several types of dental braces designed to fit different needs and lifestyles. The most common option is traditional metal braces, which use stainless steel brackets and wires to apply constant pressure and gradually straighten teeth. These metal braces are highly effective for correcting a wide range of orthodontic issues, from crowded teeth to more complex bite problems.

For kids who prefer a less noticeable look, ceramic braces are a popular alternative. These braces use tooth-colored or clear brackets that blend in with the natural color of the teeth, making them much less visible than traditional metal braces. Ceramic braces offer the same reliable results while providing a more discreet appearance.

Lingual braces are another innovative option, with brackets and wires attached to the back of the teeth instead of the front. This placement makes lingual braces completely hidden from view, which can be appealing for children who are self-conscious about wearing braces.

Self-ligating braces are also available for young orthodontic patients. These braces use a special type of bracket that holds the archwire in place without the need for elastic ties. This design can make braces more comfortable, easier to clean, and may require fewer adjustments during treatment.

Clear aligners are a modern alternative to traditional braces. These removable, nearly invisible trays gently move teeth into their correct position. Clear aligners are especially convenient for kids who play sports or musical instruments, as they can be taken out for eating, brushing, and special activities.

With so many types of braces available, your orthodontist can help you choose the best option to fit your child’s unique smile and lifestyle.

What to Expect When Your Child Gets Braces

Getting braces is a big step, and knowing what to expect can help both you and your child feel more comfortable with the process. The journey begins with a thorough examination and a personalized treatment plan created by your orthodontist. During the first appointment, your child’s teeth will be carefully assessed, and the orthodontist will discuss which type of braces is best suited for their needs and how long the treatment is expected to take.

Once the treatment plan is in place, the orthodontist will attach the brackets to your child’s teeth using a special adhesive. The archwire is then threaded through the brackets, starting the process of straightening teeth. It’s normal for your child to feel some discomfort or soreness in the days following this appointment, but this can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and orthodontic wax to protect the inside of the mouth from irritation.

Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is especially important while wearing braces. Encourage your child to brush their teeth carefully with fluoride toothpaste and use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean around the brackets and wires. Flossing daily and following the orthodontist’s instructions will help prevent plaque buildup and keep their teeth and gums healthy throughout treatment.

Regular check-ups are a key part of braces treatment. Your orthodontist will monitor your child’s progress, make necessary adjustments, and ensure that the teeth are moving as planned. With proper care and attention, braces can help your child achieve a healthy, beautiful smile and improve their overall oral health.

The cost of braces can vary depending on the type of braces chosen and the length of treatment, but many orthodontic offices offer flexible payment plans and accept insurance to help make orthodontic services more affordable. Remember, orthodontic treatment isn’t just for kids—many adults are now choosing to straighten their teeth and improve their dental health as well.

By understanding what to expect and following your orthodontist’s guidance, your child can look forward to a confident, healthy smile that lasts a lifetime.

Get a Free Dental 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 child 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. After braces are removed, we use retainers to prevent teeth from shifting back to their previous position. 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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