Free Guide to Understanding Braces Age Requirements

What You Should Know About Braces and Age

Braces are orthodontic devices that gradually move teeth into better positions over time. Many people think braces are only for teenagers, but that's not accurate. People of different ages can get braces, though the timing and process may vary. This guide provides information about how age relates to getting braces, what different ages might experience, and factors that influence when someone might consider braces.

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The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have an orthodontic screening by age seven. This doesn't mean they'll get braces at that age—it means a specialist looks at their teeth and jaw development to see what might happen as they grow. Early screening can catch problems before they become more complex. By the time children reach their early teens, usually between ages 11 and 13, many have the right mix of adult teeth to begin orthodontic treatment if needed.

Age affects braces treatment in several ways. Younger patients, particularly those still growing, often see faster results because their bones are still developing. Teens typically wear braces for 18 to 24 months. Adults can also get braces, though treatment may take longer—sometimes 24 to 36 months—because their jaw bones have finished growing and are more resistant to movement. The difference isn't huge, but it's worth understanding.

Different age groups face different considerations. Children may struggle with keeping braces clean and following care instructions. Teenagers often worry about appearance but can usually manage the responsibility. Adults might have existing dental work, gum disease, or bone loss that affects treatment options. Despite these differences, all age groups can achieve straighter teeth with appropriate orthodontic care.

Practical Takeaway: Age isn't a barrier to getting braces, but it does influence the timeline and approach. Getting an orthodontic evaluation early—even in childhood—provides valuable information about future needs, whether or not braces are necessary right away.

Braces for Children: Early Intervention and Monitoring

Children as young as six or seven can be evaluated by an orthodontist, even if they're not ready for braces yet. At this age, most children still have a mix of baby teeth and adult teeth. An orthodontist can identify potential problems like crowding, bite issues, or jaw misalignment. Early detection allows parents and dental professionals to monitor development and plan treatment if necessary.

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Some children receive what's called "Phase One" or interceptive treatment, typically between ages 6 and 10. This phase uses simple appliances to guide jaw growth and create space for adult teeth. Phase One treatment might last 6 to 12 months and can prevent more serious problems from developing. Not all children need Phase One—orthodontists recommend it only when they identify specific concerns that early intervention can address. About 25 to 30 percent of children who receive orthodontic treatment go through two phases.

During the child years, deciduous teeth (baby teeth) fall out naturally, usually between ages 5 and 12. This natural process continues in a specific pattern. Early evaluation helps orthodontists understand whether this process is happening normally or if problems might develop. Parents sometimes worry when they see crooked baby teeth, but baby tooth position doesn't always predict adult tooth position. Orthodontists have training to distinguish between normal development and problems that warrant intervention.

Children who might benefit from early evaluation include those with:

• Teeth that don't come in straight
• A significant overbite or underbite
• Crowded teeth with not enough space in the jaw
• Open bite (upper and lower front teeth don't touch when mouth is closed)
• Thumb-sucking that continues after age four
• Difficulty biting or chewing
• Speech problems

Monitoring during childhood years costs less than waiting and treating more serious problems later. Regular dental checkups with a general dentist can help identify when an orthodontic evaluation might be valuable. Parents don't need to wait for a referral—they can request an orthodontic consultation at any time if they have concerns.

Practical Takeaway: Early evaluation during childhood years doesn't mean immediate treatment. It provides information that helps make informed decisions about whether intervention is needed and what timing works best for individual development.

Braces for Teenagers: The Most Common Treatment Period

Teenagers represent the largest group receiving braces. Most orthodontists see patients between ages 11 and 15 for active treatment. By this age, most permanent adult teeth have come in, providing a clear picture of any alignment problems. The teenage years offer an optimal combination of factors: the jaw is still growing (which helps teeth move), but enough development has occurred to make treatment predictable. Additionally, teenagers can typically follow the care instructions that braces require.

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The typical age range for braces in teenagers correlates with specific developmental milestones. By age 12, about 80 to 90 percent of permanent teeth have erupted. The second molars (back teeth) usually come in between ages 12 and 13, and the wisdom teeth don't arrive until much later, usually not before age 16 or 17. This timing allows orthodontists to plan treatment without worrying about wisdom teeth disrupting the arrangement. Treatment duration for teenagers typically ranges from 18 to 24 months, though some cases take longer.

Teenagers face social considerations that younger children don't. Many worry about how braces affect appearance during important social years. Modern options address this concern. Metal braces remain most common and most affordable. Ceramic braces blend with tooth color. Lingual braces attach to the back of teeth, making them nearly invisible. Clear aligner trays (like Invisalign) are virtually invisible and removable. These options give teenagers choices about visibility, though different options come with different costs and care requirements.

Responsibility becomes important during teenage years. Braces require:

• Brushing teeth thoroughly around brackets and wires multiple times daily
• Flossing or using special floss threaders daily
• Avoiding sticky, hard, or crunchy foods that can damage brackets
• Attending regular adjustment appointments, typically every 4 to 6 weeks
• Following orthodontist instructions about care and treatment

Teenagers with significant motivation and maturity handle these responsibilities well. Some need reminders and support from parents. Orthodontists work with both teens and parents to establish realistic expectations and develop care routines that work for the individual teen's habits and lifestyle.

Practical Takeaway: The teenage years represent a common time for braces because physical and developmental factors align well with orthodontic treatment. Discussions about responsibility and care options help teenagers and parents prepare for the commitment that braces require.

Braces for Adults: It's Never Too Late

Adults of any age can get braces. Orthodontists treat patients in their 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s, and beyond. About 20 percent of orthodontic patients in the United States are adults, and this percentage continues to grow. Adults seek braces for various reasons: they never had the opportunity as teenagers, their teeth shifted after previous orthodontic treatment, they want to improve their smile before a major life event, or they're addressing problems that affect their oral health or comfort.

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Adult tooth movement works differently than in teenagers or children. Adult bones have stopped growing and are denser, so teeth move more slowly. Treatment typically takes 24 to 36 months, compared to 18 to 24 months for teenagers. The movement is slower, but it's just as effective. Adults don't have growth to help move teeth, so results depend entirely on the braces gradually pulling teeth into new positions. Despite taking longer, many adults find it worthwhile for improved function and appearance.

Adults may face complications that teenagers don't. Existing dental work like crowns or bridges affects how braces can be attached. Gum disease or bone loss from previous problems can limit what orthodontists can safely do. Some adults have had teeth removed, affecting treatment planning. Cavities must be treated before braces go on. Orthodontists take these factors into account during evaluation and planning. Adult patients often appreciate that their orthodontist takes time to address these issues thoroughly.

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