Orthodontics for Your Child: Knowing When the Time is Right
When is it the right time for a child to get braces? Technically, the “right” age for anyone to begin orthodontic treatment will always depend on the individual. That being said, the general recommended time for children to begin their journey with braces is at 12-13 years old. If your child is outside of this age range and you suspect they could benefit from orthodontic treatment, read on for more information.
Signs Your Child Might Require Early or Late Braces
The only true way to know if your child is ready to receive braces is through a consultation with a licensed orthodontist. Even so, there are a few factors that influence an orthodontist’s decision. Primarily, an orthodontist will check the alignment of your child’s jaw, the closeness or “crowding” of their teeth, whether your child persists in oral habits such as thumb-sucking or mouth breathing past the age of 4, if your child has difficulties with chewing or biting, or if your child has encountered an exceptionally early or late loss of their baby teeth. While none of these factors on their own necessitate the application of braces, they may indicate oral development complications, particularly when combined.
If you feel your child is having orthodontic issues and is above or below the average age of getting braces put on—or if they’ve already had braces before—it is best to check with your orthodontist to investigate any suspicions you or your child may have. Here at Bandeen Orthodontics Battle Creek, we employ a highly trained staff with many years of experience treating patients between the ages of 8 and 18, and can provide accurate, meaningful insight into your child’s orthodontic needs.
The Facts: Repeat Braces
To be sure, very few people have likely ever wanted to have braces more than once. That being said, getting braces a second time could prove medically meaningful to those who need them. While a second treatment of braces is extremely infrequent, those who seek them could benefit from the alleviation of certain rare symptoms. Some children who suffer from jaw or tooth pain despite the first treatment of braces, for instance, are generally worth considering as candidates for repeat braces.
If any of the above described circumstances describe your child’s experiences, don’t hesitate to reach out to a licensed professional today. Contact us at Bandeen Orthodontics today for any inquiries you might have.
