Orthodontics for teens: what age do braces start?
Every parent dreams of their children having healthy teeth and a beautiful smile. Sometimes poor habits can lead to crooked teeth or misaligned jaws in young individuals. If your child has problems, you should visit a dental facility that offers orthodontics treatment near you. Orthodontic treatment can effectively address multiple dental problems, including tooth spacing, crowding, improper bites, and more, to achieve proper dental alignment and enhance oral health and aesthetics.
Many parents are uncertain about the optimal timing to initiate orthodontic treatment for their teenagers. This article discusses the importance of braces and when teenagers should start them. The article will also look at the benefits of orthodontics treatment for teens. Orthodontics treatment for teens requires professional dentists in Del Mar, CA.
Braces are a popular orthodontic treatment to correct bite problems and straighten teeth. Although people of all ages can wear them, they are more likely to be seen in teenagers. Sunny Smiles Kids Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics has a well-qualified dentist in 92014 who deals with orthodontics for teens.
The Ideal Age to Start Braces – Orthodontic Treatment
The optimal time to start braces for teenagers seeking orthodontic treatment is during their teenage years. This period is ideal as most permanent teeth have erupted, yet the jaw is still growing. This growing phase allows orthodontists to move teeth into their correct positions more easily, providing better and long-lasting results.
According to the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), an early evaluation of age seven is recommended. Early intervention enables orthodontists to identify potential issues and develop an accurate treatment schedule, preventing minor problems from turning into major ones. Additionally, starting treatment earlier can also reduce the overall treatment time.
Factors That Determine The Best Age to Start Braces
Orthodontists use several factors to determine the ideal age to start braces on an individual. They include:
The severity of the orthodontist problem – Orthodontists use this to determine the best time to start the braces. If the orthodontic problem is severe, you may start the treatment sooner than in other cases.
Rate of teeth growth and development – The rate at which your teen’s teeth and bones are growing determines the best time to start braces. If they are developing faster, you may start treatment sooner.
Overall health – General health influences the best time to start braces. If a teenager has poor overall health, their treatment may be delayed.
Benefits of Getting Braces During Teenage Years
Perfect smile – Braces straighten crooked teeth, leading to an improved smile, enhanced self-esteem, and increased confidence.
Improved bite – Correcting bite problems improves chewing ability and reduces the risk of oral problems.
Fewer cavities – Straightened teeth are easier to clean, minimizing the likelihood of cavities.
Easier to maintain – Properly aligned teeth are simpler, promoting good oral hygiene and plaque prevention.
Lasting results – Braces permanently move teeth into their correct positions, providing lasting benefits.
Does Your Child Need Orthodontic Treatment?
Around seven, a child’s mouth changes as they lose baby teeth while their jaws still grow. It is during this time that signs of potential orthodontic issues become evident. Some common signs to look for include:
- Trouble eating
- Protruding teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Crowded teeth
- Misalignment
- Difficulty speaking
- Mouth breathing
It would help if you visited your local dentist or an orthodontist when you notice these signs on your child. They will assess your child and develop a treatment plan.
How Braces Work
Braces consist of brackets, wires, and rubber bands. The brackets are attached to the teeth and connected by archwires. The flexible wires gently pressure the teeth, guiding them slowly into their correct positions. Regular adjustments by the dentist ensure consistent pressure and gradual movement of the teeth in the desired direction.
Orthodontic treatment during the teenage years is crucial for achieving proper dental alignment and a confident smile. If your teenager requires braces in Del Mar, CA, Sunny Smiles Kids Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics dentist can provide expert orthodontic care. Don’t hesitate to schedule an early evaluation to ensure a healthy and beautiful smile that lasts a lifetime. Contact us today to learn more about our orthodontics treatment for teens.