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When can my child get braces?

Many parents are very concern about their child’s dental health but they are even more concern about braces. It is a very common question, When do we start braces?

Observation of the developing occlusion through various stages is as important as watching for decay. Simple intervention when abnormal development is noted often may prevent serious malocclusion in later years. Developing malocclusions or “bad bite” can be recognized as early as 2-3 years of age. Orthodontic problems can be inherited or caused by other factors like: dental injuries, early loss of primary teeth or harmful habits. Early intervention may reduce the need for major orthodontic treatment or surgery at a later age.

Early treatment encompasses ages 2-6. At this young age we are concerned with small dental arches, premature loss of primary teeth, and harmful habits such as finger, thumb or lip sucking. Treatment at this age is often very successful and many times, though not always, can eliminate the need for future orthodontic/orthopedic treatment.

The mixed dentition period covers the ages of 6-12, with the eruption of the four front upper and lower teeth and the 6 years permanent molars. At this age we are concern about jaw discrepancies and dental realignment problems (crooked teeth). This is an excellent stage to start treatment, when indicted, as your child’s hard and soft tissues are usually very responsive to orthodontic and dental forces.

During adolescence the patient has a permanent dentition, at this age we are concerned with the final bite relationship. Straight teeth are easier to keep clean and less susceptible to tooth decay and gum disease.

The dentist or pediatric dentist has the responsibility of guiding the developing occlusion. He/she has been trained in the observation of growth and development and he/she is in a better position to understand normal occlusion at different ages. If you have questions about your child’s occlusion consult your dentist.