Braces offer not only aesthetic improvements but can also boost your oral and general health. But at what age should you get braces? In this article, we answer this question and talk about the benefits of orthodontic treatment.
What Age Should You Get Braces?
The best age to get braces is between 10 and 14. At this time, the permanent teeth have already erupted, while the jawbone is still developing, making bite and tooth position easier to correct.
However, in some cases, an earlier intervention (7 to 9 years of age) might be necessary, particularly when there are severe bite and jaw development issues.
We recommend scheduling an appointment with an orthodontist when your child is around 7 years old to determine whether early treatment is necessary and to plan future treatments in accordance with your child’s needs.
Typically, an orthodontic treatment for children and teenagers takes around 18 months, but can take longer in more severe cases.
Can Adults Get Braces?
Orthodontic issues in adults can be effectively treated with braces, and, in fact, there is no upper age limit for orthodontic treatment. In some cases, additional procedures, such as tooth removal, might be necessary to create sufficient space in the mouth for the teeth to move.
In general, an orthodontic treatment for adults can take anywhere from 6 to 24 months, depending on the complexity of the case. Also, some people might need to wear a retainer after the treatment to maintain the results.
Why Getting Braces Is Important?
As we mentioned earlier, orthodontic treatment can offer more than just an improved smile. Other benefits of braces include:
- Improved oral hygiene and reduced risk of cavities and gum disease, as straight teeth are easier to clean effectively on a daily basis.
- Improved general health (particularly digestive, skin, lung, joint health, and immune system), as oral health problems can negatively affect your entire body.
- Better facial symmetry and stronger facial muscle support.
- Reduced risk of TMJ (jaw joint) disorders and neck muscle pain.
- Reduced risk of teeth wearing out due to uneven force distribution when chewing food.
Signs You Need an Orthodontic Treatment
An orthodontic treatment is typically recommended when the following issues are present:
- Underbite
- Overbite
- Crossbite
- Open Bite
- Misaligned teeth
- Crowded teeth
- Gaps between the teeth
- Protruding teeth
Additionally, these symptoms can signify that you require orthodontic treatment:
- Prematurely worn-out tooth enamel
- Recurring cavities or gum disease
- TMJ pain
- Headaches
- Facial muscle pain
- Neck and shoulder muscle pain
Most Common Types of Orthodontic Appliances
Nowadays, you can choose among several types of orthodontic appliances:
- Traditional metal braces are a reliable solution for a wide variety of orthodontic issues.
- Ceramic braces are as effective as metal braces but are less obtrusive in the mouth because the brackets are made of tooth-colored material, which also makes this option more expensive.
- Lingual braces are attached to the back of the teeth, which makes them invisible in the mouth, but they are also more expensive.
- Clear aligners are a popular solution made of transparent plastic, which makes them almost invisible in the mouth. Clear aligners can be removed when eating and brushing your teeth, making them a convenient option in everyday use.
Get an Orthodontic Treatment at Shodhan Yucaipa
If you are considering an orthodontic treatment, do not hesitate to make an appointment with an experienced dentist at Shodhan Yucaipa. We will carefully examine your case to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that aligns with your goals, needs, and preferences. Our specialists are looking forward to your visit.