When Should My Child Get Braces?
“When Should My Child Get Braces?” is a question almost every parent asks at some point. Although there isn’t an answer carved in stone anywhere, we will try to answer for you. Generally speaking, children should receive screening by an orthodontist as early as 7-years-old, although most children don’t need braces that early.
Phase 1 Early Treatment for Children
Children start out getting their primary, or deciduous teeth, at around 12 months of age. Most people call these “baby teeth” or “milk teeth.” They are softer than adult teeth and will fall out eventually when the adult teeth start penetrating the gum line. Your child should see a dentist regularly beginning with their first tooth. This allows the child to get comfortable with a dentist and having regular examinations.
The first orthodontist visit should occur at around age 7 when a child has lost many of their primary teeth and has several adult teeth in place. This first visit will allow the orthodontist to examine your child and determine if any future problems are evident. If there is no need for immediate treatment, your child will remain in a monitoring status. Monitoring allows the orthodontist to examine your child periodically.
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Phase 1 Treatment may be prescribed if your child has severe abnormalities or problems that affect their ability to chew properly. Severe overbites, underbites, and misaligned jaws are cause for concern and should be corrected as early as possible. Phase 1 Treatment may involve traditional braces, a retainer, or Invisalign First and focuses on making sure that the jaw is properly prepared for incoming adult teeth.
Phase 2 Treatment for Older Children and Teens
Once all or most of your child’s primary teeth have evacuated, Phase 2 Treatment can begin. Children are normally between 10 and 12-years-old for Phase 2 Treatment. They may not have all their adult teeth yet. Treatment at this stage can be more aggressive. Phase 2 Treatment helps to ensure that when permanent teeth arrive there is room for them and they will be correctly aligned.
The most common treatment for Phase 2 is traditional braces or clear (ceramic) braces. Although Invisalign Teen is also available in many cases, not all patients are suitable candidates. Your orthodontist will discuss all available options for Phase 2 Treatment if your child needs braces.
When Should My Child Get Braces?
An orthodontist will help you determine when (or if) your child should get braces. Regular dental care, good oral hygiene, and monitoring are important early steps. Many orthodontists have free initial consultations and monitoring programs. Finding a suitable office that your child is comfortable in is a great first step.
A great pediatric orthodontist in New York is Dr. Sharon Eder at Smile Style NY. Dr. Eder offers a free initial consultation for new patients. Specializing in all phases of orthodontic care, Dr. Eder is a great choice for the entire family. Whether you need Invisalign, Invisalign Teen, traditional metal or ceramic braces, Smile Style NY can help.
With two convenient locations, Smile Style NY is near you too. Schedule an appointment with the Yorktown office by calling (914) 245-3103. For an appointment at the Mt. Kisco office call (914) 666-8997.
