As a parent, you want the best for your child — and that includes helping them grow up with a healthy, confident smile. But when it comes to orthodontic treatment, many parents are unsure when to take that first step. Should your child see an orthodontist early? Wait until the teen years? Are braces even necessary?
Understanding the right time to start braces and what signs to look for can help you make informed decisions and set your child up for lifelong dental health.
What’s the Best Age to Start Braces?
While every child is different, most orthodontists recommend that children have their first orthodontic evaluation around age 7. This doesn’t mean your child will get braces at that age — but early evaluations can help identify developing issues and determine the best time to begin treatment if needed.
Braces themselves are most commonly started between the ages of 9 and 14, when most permanent teeth have erupted, and the jaw is still growing. However, early assessments allow for proactive planning and timely intervention when it makes the most impact.
Why Early Evaluations Matter
At age 7, a child’s mouth typically has a mix of baby (primary) teeth and permanent teeth. This gives orthodontists a chance to see how their bite is developing and whether future problems are likely.
Some issues are easier to correct when identified early, including:
- Severe crowding or spacing
- Crossbite or underbite
- Jaw growth abnormalities
- Habits like thumb sucking that affect tooth alignment
- Early loss of baby teeth or delayed eruption of adult teeth
Catching these issues early can lead to more effective — and sometimes shorter — treatment later on.
Signs Your Child May Need Braces
You don’t need to wait for a dentist’s referral to schedule an orthodontic consultation. As a parent, there are several signs that could indicate your child may benefit from braces or other orthodontic treatment:
- Crowded or overlapping teeth
- Large gaps between teeth
- Difficulty biting or chewing
- Jaw shifting, popping, or clicking
- Frequent mouth breathing
- Thumb sucking beyond age 5
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Teeth that protrude or don’t meet properly when the mouth is closed
Even if your child’s smile looks fine at a glance, underlying alignment or bite problems may still be developing beneath the surface. A professional evaluation provides peace of mind — and a clear roadmap for the future if needed.
What Is Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment?
In some cases, a child may benefit from what’s called two-phase treatment — a proactive orthodontic approach that begins in childhood and continues in the teen years.
Phase 1 (Early Intervention)
This phase typically starts between ages 7–10 and focuses on guiding jaw growth, creating space for incoming permanent teeth, and correcting harmful habits. Appliances used might include partial braces, expanders, or space maintainers.
Phase 2 (Full Braces or Aligners)
This phase usually begins in early adolescence, once most or all permanent teeth have erupted. It focuses on fine-tuning tooth position and bite alignment for long-term function and aesthetics.
Not all kids need two-phase treatment — many do perfectly well with a single phase of braces in their early teens. However, for those who do benefit, early intervention can prevent more serious problems down the line.
How Long Will My Child Need to Wear Braces?
The average time kids wear braces is 18 to 24 months, but this can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the type of treatment. If your child has early treatment, that phase may last around 9–12 months, with a monitoring period before starting full braces later.
Consistent checkups and good oral hygiene can help keep treatment on track and avoid delays.
Types of Braces for Kids
There are several kid-friendly braces options available today — all designed to be more comfortable, efficient, and even fun than in the past.
Common options include:
- Metal braces — The most common and durable choice, often with colorful elastic bands kids can customize.
- Ceramic braces — Tooth-colored or clear brackets that blend in more with the smile (typically used for older children or teens).
Your orthodontist will help you and your child choose the best option based on their needs, comfort, and lifestyle.
Helping Your Child Adjust to Life With Braces
Starting braces is an adjustment for any child — but a little preparation can go a long way. Here are a few tips to make the transition smoother:
- Stock up on soft foods for the first few days after braces are placed or adjusted
- Create a braces care kit for school — including wax, flossers, and a toothbrush
- Help them maintain good hygiene, especially around brackets and wires
- Celebrate progress and milestones to keep motivation high
- Be patient — it’s a learning curve for both kids and parents
A positive attitude and support from parents can make all the difference in how your child feels about their orthodontic journey.
Final Thoughts: Timing Is Key
Orthodontic care is one of the best long-term investments you can make in your child’s health and confidence. Starting with an early evaluation and learning the signs to watch for can ensure your child gets the care they need at just the right time — not too early, and not too late.
The earlier potential issues are detected, the more options you may have for gentle, effective solutions — often with shorter or simpler treatment overall.
Ready to Get Your Child’s Smile on Track?
If you’re considering braces for your child, a free consultation is a great place to start. The team at Vivid Orthodontics provides friendly, expert guidance for every age and stage of treatment. Contact us today to schedule your child’s first visit and take the first step toward a healthy, confident smile.