Orthodontics For Kids (Best Age, Braces Types & Early Signs)

When Should You Start Orthodontic for kids? Understanding the Best Timing 

• Early orthodontic screening is recommended by the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) around the age of 7, even if no visible dental issues are present. At this age, children typically have a mix of baby and adult teeth, allowing orthodontists to detect problems before they become serious.
• The main reason for early assessment is to monitor jaw development and the eruption of permanent teeth. Identifying issues like crossbites, overbites, or crowding at this stage can allow for simpler and shorter treatments.
• A common misconception is that age 7 is “too early” for braces. While full braces may not be applied at this age, it is the ideal time for diagnosis and, if necessary, for beginning Phase 1 interceptive treatment, which can guide proper oral development.
• Waiting too long could mean more complex treatments later. For example, if crowding or jaw misalignment isn’t addressed early, it might require tooth extractions or orthognathic surgery in the future.
• Starting the orthodontic journey early doesn’t always mean starting treatment immediately. In many cases, it’s about establishing a relationship with the orthodontist and monitoring the child’s growth over time to determine the perfect moment for action.
• Benefits of early orthodontic assessments include:
  • Reduced treatment time later
  • Prevention of dental trauma
  • Improved facial symmetry
  • Enhanced speech and chewing function
• For parents wondering, “What age can a child go to orthodontics?” or “Is it normal for a 7-year-old to have braces?” — the answer is: yes, early screening is normal, recommended, and often crucial for ensuring a healthy smile later on.

What Is Phase 1 Orthodontic Treatment and When Is It Needed?

• Phase 1 orthodontic treatment, also known as interceptive orthodontics, refers to early treatment that begins while some baby teeth are still present, typically between the ages of 7 and 10. The goal is not just cosmetic but to guide jaw growth and improve the foundation for permanent teeth.
• This early phase is recommended for children who show signs of moderate to severe malocclusions, such as crossbites, underbites, open bites, or protruding front teeth. It may also be used to manage issues stemming from thumb-sucking, mouth breathing, or early tooth loss.
• Orthodontists perform a detailed evaluation including x-rays, digital scans, and photographs to assess the dental and skeletal development. The findings help them determine if Phase 1 treatment is necessary or if observation until later is sufficient.
• The most common appliances used in Phase 1 include:
  • Palatal expanders to widen the upper jaw and correct crossbites.
  • Partial braces on select teeth to align erupting teeth.
  • Space maintainers to prevent drifting if baby teeth are lost too early.
• Goals of Phase 1 orthodontics:
  • Intercept developing bite problems and stop them from worsening.
  • Guide jaw growth for better facial balance and function.
  • Create space for permanent teeth to erupt properly.
  • Avoid or reduce the need for tooth extractions or complex treatment later.
  • Boost a child’s self-esteem by addressing visible issues early.
• For parents asking, “What is Phase 1 of orthodontics?” or “Is it too early for braces at 7?”, this approach offers proactive care that can reduce the complexity, duration, and cost of Phase 2 orthodontics (which typically involves full braces during adolescence).

What Is the Best Age for a Child to Get Braces?

Deciding on the best age for a child to get braces depends on several developmental, dental, and emotional factors. While every child is different, orthodontists generally recommend starting full braces — also known as Phase 2 treatment — between the ages of 9 and 14. This period is when most children have a mix of baby and permanent teeth, and the jaw is actively growing.

• Why ages 9–14 are optimal:
  • At this age, the jawbone is still malleable, allowing teeth to move more efficiently during treatment.
  • Most of the permanent teeth have erupted, making it the ideal time to begin alignment without interference from baby teeth.
  • The orthodontist can use this natural growth period to guide facial and jaw development, resulting in better long-term outcomes.
• Balancing emotional and physical maturity:
  • Children at this age typically understand instructions better, are more capable of maintaining oral hygiene, and can tolerate the responsibility of wearing braces or aligners.
  • Emotional readiness is important too — if a child is self-conscious about their smile or frequently asks about braces, this can be a sign they’re motivated and ready for treatment.
  • On the flip side, pushing a reluctant or immature child into orthodontic treatment can increase the risk of non-compliance and potentially extend the treatment time.
• Why some children start earlier:
  • Those with early-diagnosed issues — like underbites, open bites, or narrow palates — may have already completed Phase 1 treatment around ages 7–10. In these cases, Phase 2 starts as soon as the remaining permanent teeth erupt.
  • Children with a family history of malocclusion may benefit from earlier evaluations and proactive care to avoid severe misalignment.
• Delaying too long can complicate treatment:
  • After puberty, the jaw hardens and becomes less responsive to orthodontic adjustments.
  • Starting too late may lead to longer treatments, potential surgical interventions, or limited movement options for correcting bite and alignment.

For parents wondering, “What age is best to put braces?” or “Do braces work faster on kids?” — the answer lies in catching the perfect timing between dental development and jaw growth. Orthodontists use this window to deliver the most effective, efficient, and comfortable treatment.

What Age Is Too Early or Too Late for Braces? 

One of the most common questions parents ask is whether there’s such a thing as starting orthodontics too early — or too late. The short answer is: it depends on the child’s specific condition, developmental stage, and treatment goals.

• When is early truly too early?
  • While screenings should begin around age 7, that doesn’t always mean braces will be needed immediately.
  • True orthodontic treatment before age 6 is rare unless the child has very specific skeletal issues or habits that risk worsening bite problems.
  • Most orthodontists avoid placing full braces on very young children because their jaw growth isn’t complete, and they may lack the maturity to manage proper care.
  • Instead, interceptive treatments (like Phase 1) with expanders or partial braces may be introduced to guide early development rather than apply full correction.
• When earlier treatment is beneficial:
  • For children with severe underbites, open bites, or crossbites, early intervention can reduce the need for future extractions or even jaw surgery.
  • Kids with habitual thumb-sucking, mouth breathing, or tongue thrusting often benefit from early intervention before those behaviors alter bone structure permanently.
  • In these cases, earlier is better to redirect growth and avoid larger problems in adolescence.
• What about teens and older?
  • Teenagers (ages 12–17) are the most common age group for braces. Their permanent teeth are in, and their jawbones are still responsive, allowing for efficient tooth movement.
  • Compliance with treatment is generally higher as teens are often motivated by aesthetic concerns or peer influence.
• Is it ever too late for braces?
  • Absolutely not. While adults may face longer treatment times due to reduced bone plasticity, it’s never too late to start orthodontics.
  • Adult patients often opt for ceramic braces or clear aligners like Invisalign for aesthetic reasons.
  • However, some complex issues may require a combination of braces and surgical intervention, especially if the jaw has fully developed with severe misalignment.
• Bottom line:
  • There’s no universal age that’s “too early” or “too late” — it’s more about timing the treatment to your child’s individual needs.
  • The earlier the issues are identified, the more treatment options are available and the less invasive they may be.

Understanding the ideal age for braces — and when treatment should or shouldn’t begin — is essential for setting realistic expectations and achieving the best long-term outcomes.

What Are the Signs Your Child May Need Orthodontics? 

Recognizing early signs of orthodontic issues in your child can make a significant difference in the success and ease of treatment. While only a licensed orthodontist can officially diagnose the need for braces or other interventions, there are several warning signs that parents can look out for.

• Crowded, gapped, or crooked teeth
  • One of the most visible signs is teeth that overlap or twist due to lack of space (crowding).
  • Alternatively, some children may have noticeable gaps between teeth (diastema), often caused by jaw size mismatch or missing teeth.
  • These spacing issues can impact aesthetics, but more importantly, they make proper brushing and flossing difficult, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
• Jaw misalignment or asymmetry
  • If you notice your child’s jaw shifting or clicking when they chew, or if one side appears to protrude more than the other, it may be a sign of skeletal misalignment.
  • A misaligned jaw can cause long-term issues with chewing, speaking, and even breathing if left untreated.
• Habits like thumb-sucking or mouth breathing
  • Persistent thumb-sucking past age 4–5 can affect how the upper jaw develops, often leading to an open bite or other malocclusions.
  • Chronic mouth breathing can alter tongue posture and jaw growth, contributing to narrow arches and crowded teeth.
  • Early orthodontic evaluation can help correct or mitigate the damage from these habits with interventions like habit breakers or expanders.
• Problems with speech, chewing, or biting
  • If your child struggles to pronounce certain sounds (like “S” or “T”), the issue may lie in the alignment of their teeth or jaw.
  • Difficulty chewing or frequent biting of the cheeks or tongue may indicate crossbites or overbites, which are correctable with orthodontic treatment.
  • Complaints about jaw pain or discomfort while eating are also signs that an orthodontic evaluation may be needed.

Early identification of these issues often leads to less invasive and more effective treatments. Bringing your child for an evaluation when you notice these signs can result in a shorter treatment time and better outcomes.

Can Kids Get Braces with Baby Teeth?

The idea of giving braces to kids who still have baby teeth might seem premature to some parents, but orthodontists often recommend early evaluations—and sometimes even early interventions—for a good reason. This is where interceptive orthodontics or Phase 1 treatment comes into play.

• When partial braces or spacers are appropriate
  • Children with mixed dentition (a combination of baby and permanent teeth) can benefit from partial braces or space maintainers. These appliances help guide the eruption of permanent teeth into proper alignment.
  • If a baby tooth falls out too early, a spacer might be used to hold the gap open so the adult tooth can erupt in the correct position.
  • Partial braces may be applied to just a few teeth to correct alignment issues early on, especially if there are already signs of crowding or protrusion.
• Managing space for adult teeth to erupt
  • During the transition from baby teeth to permanent teeth, the available space in the mouth becomes critical. If not properly managed, crowding, misalignment, or impaction of adult teeth can occur.
  • Early orthodontic intervention helps maintain or create sufficient space for adult teeth, reducing the likelihood of tooth extractions or more invasive treatments in the future.
  • This phase also allows orthodontists to monitor growth patterns and intervene if something begins to veer off track.
• Guiding eruption patterns for long-term results
  • One of the primary goals of Phase 1 orthodontics is to guide how and where permanent teeth erupt. Properly aligned baby teeth can set the stage for smoother adult tooth eruption.
  • Misaligned baby teeth or premature tooth loss can lead to shifting of other teeth, resulting in crooked or overlapping permanent teeth. Early use of appliances like expanders or limited braces can correct these patterns.
  • In certain cases, aligners or functional appliances may be introduced to support jaw development alongside tooth alignment.

While not all children with baby teeth need braces, those showing early signs of malocclusion, crossbite, or crowding may benefit from early treatment. Consulting with an orthodontist when your child is around age 7, as recommended by the American Association of Orthodontists, can determine whether early treatment is necessary or if simple observation will suffice.

What Teeth Should a 7-Year-Old Have?

Understanding the typical dental development of a 7-year-old is crucial for determining whether orthodontic intervention is appropriate at this age. At around 7 years old, most children are in the “mixed dentition” phase—meaning they have a combination of baby teeth and newly erupting permanent teeth.

• Typical dental development stage at age 7
  • By this age, most children will have lost their lower and upper central incisors (the two front teeth on both top and bottom).
  • Permanent first molars, often called “six-year molars,” usually erupt around age 6 and are among the first adult teeth to appear. These molars are key to establishing the alignment and bite.
  • Lateral incisors (the teeth next to the central front teeth) may begin to erupt around age 7 or 8, continuing the process of dental transition.
• Which teeth should be present to evaluate for orthodontic needs
  • An orthodontist looks not just at which teeth are present, but how they are erupting and aligning in the arch.
  • The position of the permanent first molars is especially important. These molars act as anchors and play a foundational role in bite development.
  • The spacing of the remaining baby teeth is also assessed. If baby teeth are tightly packed, it may indicate future crowding problems as adult teeth emerge, which are generally larger.
  • The alignment of the erupting incisors can signal early issues like overbite, underbite, or crossbite.
• Why timing matters for orthodontic screening
  • At this stage, enough dental and skeletal development has occurred to identify potential malocclusions, such as open bites, crossbites, or jaw misalignment.
  • Early evaluation allows the orthodontist to determine whether interceptive treatment (Phase 1) could prevent more serious complications later.
  • Some children may benefit from minor interventions, while others may only need observation until more permanent teeth come in.

Knowing what teeth should be present at age 7 helps parents understand why this is a milestone age for orthodontic evaluation. It’s not about putting braces on all 7-year-olds—it’s about catching potential issues before they become complex problems.

How Does Early Orthodontic Treatment Work? 

Early orthodontic treatment—often called “interceptive orthodontics”—is a proactive approach designed to address developing dental and skeletal issues before they worsen. This phase of care is usually implemented between the ages of 6 and 10 and focuses on correcting problems that are easier to resolve while the jaw is still growing.

• Key steps: screening, x-rays, treatment planning
  • The process begins with an initial orthodontic screening, ideally around age 7 as recommended by the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO). During this visit, the orthodontist evaluates tooth eruption, bite function, and jaw development.
  • Panoramic x-rays or cephalometric imaging may be taken to assess the positioning of unerupted teeth and the relationship between the jaws and skull.
  • Impressions or 3D scans of the mouth are also made to create custom treatment plans tailored to the child’s needs.
  • The orthodontist then formulates a step-by-step plan, sometimes incorporating appliances and other techniques that can guide jaw growth or tooth movement in the right direction.
• Common appliances: spacers, palatal expanders, partial braces
  • Spacers (space maintainers): These are used if a baby tooth is lost prematurely, ensuring that adjacent teeth don’t crowd into the space meant for a permanent tooth.
  • Palatal expanders: These appliances gently widen the upper jaw over several weeks or months, often used to correct crossbites or to make room for crowded teeth. Early use of a palatal expander can prevent future extractions or jaw surgery.
  • Partial braces or limited aligners: In some cases, early use of braces on front teeth or a few select areas helps to align emerging adult teeth or fix functional problems like protrusion or rotations.
• Monitoring growth over time to decide if and when Phase 2 is needed
  • After Phase 1 treatment concludes, a resting period typically follows. During this time, the orthodontist monitors growth and the eruption of permanent teeth.
  • Not every child will need full braces (Phase 2), but if they do, early intervention often shortens the duration and complexity of that second phase.
  • Children are usually reviewed every 6–12 months to track dental development and plan for timely, less invasive Phase 2 treatment when necessary.

Early orthodontic treatment doesn’t aim to perfect the smile in one go—it lays a solid foundation that simplifies and enhances future orthodontic care.

Are Braces Good for Kids and Do They Hurt? 

Braces can be an excellent solution for children facing dental alignment or bite issues, but it’s normal for parents to have concerns—especially about whether the process is painful or distressing. Fortunately, modern orthodontic advancements have made the experience significantly more comfortable and beneficial for kids.

• Addressing common fears around pain
  • The idea of braces can be intimidating to children, especially if they’ve heard stories from older siblings or peers. However, it’s important to clarify that braces typically cause only minor discomfort, primarily after the initial fitting and during adjustment appointments.
  • This discomfort results from the gentle but consistent pressure applied to shift the teeth into alignment—not from the brackets or wires themselves.
  • Most kids adapt quickly and are surprised at how tolerable the sensation is after the first few days.
• How kids adapt to braces after the initial adjustment
  • Once the initial soreness fades—usually within 3 to 5 days—children resume their normal routines, often forgetting they’re even wearing braces.
  • Orthodontists provide wax to cover any brackets that might cause irritation inside the mouth in the early days.
  • Soft foods, over-the-counter pain relief (when recommended), and saltwater rinses can all ease initial tenderness.
• Psychological benefits of improved appearance
  • Many children gain a sense of excitement knowing their teeth will look better over time. Improved aesthetics lead to higher self-esteem, especially important during formative years.
  • Addressing dental concerns early also helps children avoid teasing or bullying associated with visible dental issues.
  • Positive changes in smile appearance often result in more confident communication, classroom participation, and social interactions.

Do Braces Hurt for 8-Year-Olds? 

• 8-year-olds are within the typical age range for Phase 1 orthodontics, and like all kids, they may feel slight pressure or soreness after their braces are placed.
• Parents can support their child with soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies during the adjustment period.
• Discomfort is typically short-lived, and orthodontists provide tailored tips for each child to ease the process.

Do Braces Work Faster on Kids? 

• Children’s jawbones are still developing, making tooth movement easier and more responsive to orthodontic forces.
• Because of this flexibility, treatment is often more efficient and shorter in duration compared to adults.
• However, retention is still essential post-treatment to maintain results as the child continues to grow.

What Types of Braces Are Best for Children? 

When it comes to choosing the right type of braces for children, the decision depends on several factors, including the child’s age, the complexity of their dental issues, and their ability to comply with treatment. Fortunately, orthodontics has evolved, and there are now multiple options available, each with its own set of advantages and drawbacks. Let’s explore the most common types of braces for kids:

• Overview of available options: metal, ceramic, Invisalign
  • Traditional Metal Braces:
    • The most common and durable option, traditional metal braces consist of stainless steel brackets and a wire system that moves teeth over time.
    • These braces are ideal for more complex cases, as they provide the strongest force needed to move the teeth into their proper position.
    • Children may enjoy personalizing their metal braces with colored elastics for a fun, individualized look.
  • Ceramic Braces:
    • Ceramic braces are similar to metal braces but feature tooth-colored or clear brackets that blend with the natural color of the teeth.
    • While more discreet than metal braces, ceramic braces are often more fragile and may require more care, especially for younger children.
    • Ceramic braces are best for older children or teens who are more responsible with their orthodontic care.
  • Invisalign:
    • Invisalign offers clear, removable aligners that gradually shift the teeth into place. This option is highly discreet and easy to manage since the aligners can be taken out for eating, drinking, and brushing.
    • For children, Invisalign First is designed for kids with mixed dentition (a combination of baby and adult teeth), offering flexibility while still providing effective treatment.
    • The challenge with Invisalign is ensuring compliance, as the aligners must be worn for 20 to 22 hours a day to be effective.
• Pros and cons depending on child’s age, compliance, and case complexity
  • Metal Braces:
    • Pros: Most effective for complex cases, durable, widely available.
    • Cons: Less discreet, requires more maintenance, can cause irritation.
  • Ceramic Braces:
    • Pros: More aesthetic and discreet than metal braces.
    • Cons: Can be more fragile, may stain over time, requires a higher level of care.
  • Invisalign:
    • Pros: Discreet, removable, comfortable.
    • Cons: Requires high levels of discipline from the child, not suitable for all cases (e.g., severe misalignments).

Can a 7-Year-Old Get Invisalign? 

• Invisalign First aligners are specifically designed for children who still have some baby teeth, making them suitable for 7-year-olds who are early candidates for orthodontic treatment.
• While Invisalign First offers a more flexible treatment option, it requires excellent cooperation from the child to wear the aligners consistently for optimal results.

Is Myobrace Effective for Kids? 

• Myobrace is a preventive treatment designed to correct poor habits that can affect jaw development, such as mouth breathing or thumb sucking.
• It’s effective for younger children, especially those aged 5 to 10, and works to correct minor issues early, which can reduce the need for traditional braces later on.
• Parental involvement is crucial for success, as consistent use and monitoring are necessary for optimal results.

How Much Do Braces Cost for Children? 

When considering orthodontic treatment for children, one of the first concerns for many parents is the cost. The price of braces can vary greatly depending on the severity of the case, the type of braces chosen, and the geographical location of the orthodontic office. Let’s break down the factors that contribute to the overall cost of braces for children:

• Cost range depending on case severity and treatment type
  • The cost of braces typically ranges from $3,000 to $7,000.
  • Phase 1 treatment (for early intervention) may cost less, generally falling between $1,500 to $3,000, while Phase 2 treatment (full braces) usually ranges between $3,000 to $7,000 depending on complexity.
  • The more complex the orthodontic issues, the higher the cost. For example, if extractions or additional procedures are required, the total treatment cost can increase significantly.
• Typical costs for Phase 1 vs. full braces
  • Phase 1 treatment usually involves appliances like spacers, partial braces, or palatal expanders and is typically recommended for children aged 7 to 10. It serves as an initial step to guide the growth of the jaws and teeth.
    • Cost: Between $1,500 and $3,000.
  • Phase 2 treatment involves traditional braces or clear aligners once all of the child’s permanent teeth have come in (usually around ages 11 to 14). This phase is aimed at aligning the teeth and jaws for optimal function and aesthetics.
    • Cost: Typically ranges from $3,000 to $7,000.
• Factors affecting cost: appliances used, duration, complexity
  • Appliance Type: The type of braces chosen can greatly affect the cost. Traditional metal braces tend to be the most affordable option, while clear ceramic braces or Invisalign aligners are generally more expensive due to their aesthetic appeal and material costs.
  • Treatment Duration: The length of treatment also plays a role in determining the cost. If a child needs braces for a longer period, this can increase the total cost. Some cases may require additional follow-up visits, retainer adjustments, or ongoing treatment that can add to the overall price.
  • Complexity of the Case: More complex dental issues, such as severe misalignments, overcrowding, or jaw discrepancies, may require advanced orthodontic techniques or a longer treatment period, thus increasing the cost.

Do Children Pay for Orthodontics or Are Braces Free for 16-Year-Olds? 

• Private vs. public coverage: The cost of braces may be partially covered by dental insurance or government health programs, such as the NHS in the UK or Medicaid in some U.S. states. However, private insurance may have coverage limits, and in many cases, parents are still responsible for a portion of the cost.
• Age-based eligibility rules: Some insurance policies cover orthodontic treatments up to a certain age, but coverage for treatments after the child reaches 18 may be limited or not available. It’s important to check the specifics of your insurance policy to understand what’s covered.
• Payment plans and financing options: Many orthodontists offer payment plans to help families manage the cost of braces over time. These plans may include monthly payments or financing options that allow families to pay the cost of treatment in installments.

How Long Do Braces Take for Children? 

The duration of orthodontic treatment is one of the most common concerns for parents and children considering braces. While there is no fixed timeframe that applies to every child, several factors can influence how long the braces will need to be worn. Let’s dive into the key elements that affect the length of time children wear braces.

• Average treatment durations for Phase 1 and Phase 2
  • Phase 1 Treatment: Phase 1 usually involves correcting issues with the alignment of the teeth and jaws in younger children, typically between the ages of 7 and 10. The duration for Phase 1 can range from 6 to 12 months. The goal of Phase 1 is to prevent further dental issues and make room for the permanent teeth.
  • Phase 2 Treatment: Once the child has most or all of their permanent teeth, Phase 2 begins. This phase usually involves traditional braces or clear aligners to finish the process of aligning the teeth and correcting bite issues. Phase 2 generally takes between 12 to 24 months, depending on the complexity of the case and the child’s adherence to orthodontic instructions.
• Factors that affect treatment time: compliance, growth, severity
  • Compliance: One of the biggest factors in determining the duration of braces treatment is the child’s compliance. Wearing the braces as prescribed and following the orthodontist’s instructions can significantly reduce treatment time. For example, it’s essential that children wear elastics or headgear as directed to achieve the desired results on time.
  • Growth and Development: Orthodontic treatment is most effective when the child’s mouth and jaw are still growing. Early intervention (Phase 1) can help guide jaw development and shorten the duration of Phase 2, where more complex adjustments are made. The speed of jaw and tooth growth can impact how quickly treatment progresses.
  • Severity of the Dental Issue: The complexity of the dental issue also affects treatment time. For instance, children with severe misalignment, overcrowding, or bite problems may need a longer treatment period compared to those with more straightforward cases.
• Importance of retention after treatment
  • After the braces are removed, the child will need to wear a retainer to maintain the results achieved. Retainers prevent the teeth from shifting back to their original positions. Wearing the retainer as prescribed (often for several months or years) is critical to ensure the long-term success of orthodontic treatment.
  • The retention phase typically lasts for a period of 1 to 2 years and requires regular follow-ups with the orthodontist to monitor progress and make adjustments if needed.

How to Manage Treatment Time Effectively

• Regular Check-ups: Scheduling regular appointments with the orthodontist ensures that any necessary adjustments are made promptly, which helps keep the treatment on track.
• Early Intervention: As mentioned earlier, starting treatment early can often reduce the overall treatment time by addressing issues before they become more complex.
• Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Keeping the teeth and braces clean can prevent complications like tooth decay and gum disease, which could potentially extend treatment time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontics for Kids 

As a parent considering orthodontic treatment for your child, you may have several questions about the process, the duration, and when to start. Here are the answers to some of the most common questions that parents ask about orthodontics for kids.

What Is the Best Age for a Child to Get Braces?

The best age for children to start orthodontic treatment typically falls between 9 and 14 years old, depending on the development of their permanent teeth. During this age range, the child’s jaw is still growing, which allows for better movement of teeth and easier alignment. However, it is important to note that children can begin treatment earlier if they have specific issues that require early intervention.

• Phase 1 treatment: In some cases, orthodontists may recommend starting treatment as early as age 7 to correct significant dental problems before they become more complex.
• Timing and dental development: The right time to begin orthodontics varies depending on the child’s dental development, and some children may need to wait until all of their permanent teeth are in place before starting Phase 2 of treatment.

What Is Phase 1 Orthodontic Treatment? 

Phase 1 orthodontic treatment is typically administered when a child still has some baby teeth. This phase is designed to address serious dental issues such as crossbite, underbite, or significant overcrowding. It involves using appliances like palatal expanders, spacers, or partial braces to help guide the development of the jaw and teeth.

• Goal of Phase 1: The goal is to correct problems early, which can prevent the need for more complicated treatment later. Phase 1 usually lasts 6 to 12 months and helps ensure that the child’s mouth has enough space for permanent teeth to grow properly.
• Key benefits: By addressing issues early, Phase 1 can help reduce the time needed for Phase 2 treatment, when the child’s permanent teeth are fully erupted.

Can Kids Get Braces with Baby Teeth? 

Yes, children can receive braces while they still have baby teeth. However, this is typically only the case if there are specific issues with their bite or tooth alignment that need to be addressed before the adult teeth come in.

• When partial braces are used: In some cases, partial braces or spacers may be used in younger children (around 7–10 years old) to address issues like overcrowding or early misalignment.
• Guiding permanent teeth: The goal is to create space for adult teeth to erupt properly and to prevent future dental problems from arising.

Is 7 Years Old Too Early for Braces?

While 7 years old may seem young to some, it is actually an ideal age for an initial consultation with an orthodontist. The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that children receive an orthodontic evaluation by the age of 7 to assess the development of their teeth and jaw.

• Early evaluation: By age 7, most children have a mixture of both baby teeth and permanent teeth, which allows orthodontists to spot potential problems early. In some cases, early intervention can prevent more complex treatments later on.
• Is treatment necessary at 7?: For many children, braces or other orthodontic appliances are not needed at this stage, but early screening can help identify any issues that may require intervention later.

Are Braces Good for Kids and Do They Hurt?

One of the common concerns parents have when considering braces for their child is whether the treatment will be painful and how their child will adapt to having braces. In most cases, children adapt well to braces and the discomfort is temporary.

• Initial discomfort: When braces are first placed or adjusted, children may experience mild discomfort or soreness in their teeth and gums, which usually lasts a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage this discomfort.
• Psychological benefits: While there may be some discomfort, the psychological benefits of braces—such as a boost in confidence and self-esteem—are significant. Straightening teeth can help children feel more comfortable with their appearance.