What Age Do Kids Have Braces?
As parents, we want all children to be healthy, and to retain their adorable, pearly white smiles throughout life. That is why I look after every aspect of their upbringing; from their nutrition to education, and health. A common question that parents often ask their dentists is regarding the ideal age for having braces. If you’re also a parent you’re wondering whether braces are necessary for all kids, or when to take your child to an orthodontist first, this article is for you. Continue reading to find everything you need to know about orthodontic treatment in kids.
What Age Is Too Old To Start Using Braces (For Teeth)?
No age is too old to get orthodontic treatment. Whether you’re sixteen or sixty years old, you can still get your teeth straightened with braces or clear aligners, in fact, age is just a number when it comes to orthodontic treatment. While your age will not affect the outcome of your treatment, it does have an impact on your treatment speed. Younger people have flexible bones that easily allow tooth movement and realignment. On the other hand, older individuals have brittle bones that make tooth movement slower. That is why it takes slightly longer to straighten teeth in older people.
At What Age Should A Child First Visit An Orthodontist?
There is no set age for children to visit the orthodontist. Some orthodontists recommend bringing your kids by the age of 7, while others suggest seeing them around the age of 9-10. Taking your child to an orthodontist at an early age allows them to diagnose and intercept tooth misalignment problems earlier, thereby requiring lesser treatment with braces later in life. Regardless, the British Orthodontic Society recommends initiating orthodontic treatment for kids at the age of 12 or 13, when all the permanent teeth (except the wisdom teeth) have erupted.
Is It Normal To Still Have Braces On 5 Years Later?
Even the most complicated orthodontic problems are normally fixed with braces within 24-36 months. It is not normal to still have braces on after 5 years of treatment. It indicates that the patient is not adhering to the dentist’s instructions, or the dentist is not skilled or competent enough to treat the issue properly.
Is It More Common For Kids To Have Braces These Days?
Yes. Orthodontic problems in the younger generation are becoming increasingly common. Besides, improved access to healthcare facilities, insurance coverage of orthodontic treatment, and increased awareness about oral health has led to an increase in the demand for orthodontic treatment. Even older adults are now opting for braces or aligners as they are becoming more and more self-conscious of their appearance and looks.
Is 14 Too Late To Get Braces, Or Just The Right Time?
It is never too late to start orthodontic treatment. At the age of 14, bones in a child are still flexible and actively growing. Your orthodontist can utilise this growth and redirect bone development to realign your teeth more quickly. As one ages, the bones lose their blood supply and become brittle. As a result, it takes longer to fix orthodontic problems in older individuals.
Can I Get Dental Braces At Any Age?
Although the ideal age to get braces is 12-13, it does not mean that you cannot get braces later in life. No matter how old you are, you are a candidate for getting braces. However, your dentist will adjust the speed of your treatment according to your age.
Can I Get Teeth Braces At The Age Of 28?
At the age of 28, one is still considered to be young and active. So, there is nothing stopping you from getting braces even if you are 28. Today, orthodontists are treating individuals of all ages, from 12 years to 60 years old. Thanks to modern orthodontics, several options are available to align crooked teeth comfortably and conveniently. You can consult your dentist regarding an option that is best for you considering your age and oral health needs.
How To Know If I’m Eligible For Free Braces?
All individuals under 18 are eligible for free-of-cost treatment with braces through the NHS. However, there must be a clear-cut health need for such treatment, and not just a cosmetic one. Although NHS is treatment is free for teenagers in the NHS, their demand is very high. Hence, the waiting list can be quite long. In these cases, some parents prefer not to wait for the NHS and proceed with private orthodontic treatment, as it much quicker is and hassle-free.
Do You Get Braces For An Overbite?
Braces can fix a wide variety of orthodontic issues, including overbites. An overbite is when the upper front teeth extend excessively beyond the lower front ones. While it is common for people to have a slight overbite, when the overbite extends beyond a certain limit it can cause aesthetic and functional problems. If you have an overbite, you can get it fixed with metal braces or Invisalign aligners. Your child’s orthodontist will prepare a treatment plan according to their specific treatment needs.
Are you looking for a kid orthodontist in Winsdor or Guilford? You can rely on Smile 101 specialist Orthodontist Centre to provide you with the best services in town (we have our offices at both these locations). So, request a free virtual consultation appointment with our orthodontist today and let your child enjoy a healthy, beautiful, and lasting smile.