When Should My Child Get Braces? A Guide to the Right Age for Orthodontic Care

Many parents wonder when the right time is for their child to see an orthodontist and potentially get braces. Although the ideal age for most kids is around age 11-12 when all their permanent teeth have erupted, about 25% of kids will need orthodontic treatment as early as age 8.  Early detection of  cross-bites, underbites, or severe overbites is critical to ensure proper growth patterns of the jaws and the best possible smiles long-term. Every child’s growth pattern and needs are unique, and the timing of treatment often involves leveraging the fast-growing years so that jaw growth and development can be guided.

Ideal Age for Orthodontic Screening

Eight is great! Dr. LeMert recommends that children have their first orthodontic consultation around age 8, based on guidelines from the American Association of Orthodontists. The screening is free and includes a digital panoramic x-ray that shows all the teeth even the unerupted permanent teeth that are still under the baby teeth!  It’s a great time to catch genetically missing or extra teeth and to take a look at the roots of the teeth and the jaw bones.  Even if braces aren’t immediately necessary, an early screen is a good idea. Dr. LeMert likes to talk with parents about what to expect and watch for in the future, he provides a complimentary observation program where he monitors tooth and facial growth at yearly check-ups for free.

Signs Your Child Might Need Braces

• Crossbite
• Underbite
• Overbite
• Crowded or crooked teeth
• V-shaped upper arch
• Early or late loss of baby teeth
• Small permanent teeth
• Difficulty biting or chewing
• Thumb-sucking after age 5
• Open bite

Addressing these issues early can prevent more serious complications later such as asymmetrical or unmatched jaws, chipping or wear on the edges of teeth, impacted teeth, bone loss, gum tissue damage, cavities, and difficulty with breathing, sleeping, chewing, or talking.

Why Early Orthodontic Treatment is Beneficial

There are many potential benefits of Phase-I early orthodontic treatment. When a child is young, the sutures between the bones of the head and face are not fully fused, which means movement and change are easily accomplished. This is the easiest time to guide jaw development and improve overall facial symmetry and alignment. Early intervention can often prevent future tooth restorations, extractions or even surgery. Additionally, it is important to catch and retrain harmful habits such as thumb sucking or tongue thrusting, and an orthodontist can identify and recommend the best approach.

Why You Should Get Your Free Screening When Your Child Turns 8 at LeMert Orthodontics

Acting early to assess your child’s dental development sets them up for the best possible smile and oral health for life. LeMert Orthodontics offers a free orthodontic screening for children around age 8. The appointment includes a thorough evaluation and customized treatment plan whether it’s forecasting for the future or recommending treatment right away. 

The LO Smile Team is specialized, relational, and hopeful, making every appointment fun and educational. Dr. LeMert and his expert team emphasize that parents do not need to wait for visible problems to emerge before seeking an orthodontic consultation. Free consultations can be scheduled by simply calling or texting us or at LeMertOrthodontics.com.  

Ready to take the first step? Schedule your child’s free orthodontic consultation at LeMert Orthodontics when your child turns 8 and let our expert team guide you through the smile process! Contact us today to get started!