It is common to see teenagers wearing braces, especially the traditional types. This might make you wonder if they are designed for this demographic alone.
But this is not the case, as adults also wear braces. The trend of adults getting braces is rising, even though most opt for the more discreet types.
People wear braces to improve their oral health or have a straighter smile. But certain factors matter. Increased awareness about oral health and the need to boost self-confidence is highly considered.
So, at what age should an individual wear braces? Here, you will find out everything you need to know. But, to tip you off, wearing braces is a thing of choice. It depends on the individual.
The Best Age for Braces
When you only want a big smile that gets everyone complimenting you, orthodontics is the way forward. However, the treatment offers other benefits, like healthier teeth, improved oral function, and overall well-being.
It is common to see boys and girls with braces, and the question of when to wear braces might pop into your head as an adult. However, there is no best age to get orthodontic treatment, as it offers the same benefits to patients of various ages.
The best time for orthodontic treatment includes factors that shape the treatment plan and timing of the individual.
Orthodontics for Children
Children can receive orthodontic treatment when most permanent teeth sprout, around age 11 to 14. However, some may need earlier intervention if they have developed specific issues, such as crowded teeth or bite problems, during their teeth development.
Orthodontists suggest the “8 is Great” approach for kids ages 7-8. This assessment helps identify potential dental issues in young children and provides timely intervention and effective treatment plans.
If a child requires treatment at any point during formative age, the orthodontist can determine the best time to introduce braces. The initial consultation also provides parents with valuable insight into their children’s oral health without the need for additional treatment costs.
Orthodontic Treatment for Adults
It is never too late to straighten your smile. So, if you are an adult seeking orthodontic treatment for the first time, remember that orthodontics is for all ages, and you are not alone. The American Association of Orthodontics agrees that no one is too old to get a straighter smile, and more adults are getting the treatment than kids.
As an adult, you may turn to orthodontics for various reasons, including bite issues, misaligned teeth, or shifted teeth caused by not using retainers after wearing braces. Modern options like ceramic braces or clear aligners provide more comfortable and discreet treatment solutions for adults.
How to Prepare Your Smile Before Orthodontic Treatment
Before orthodontic treatment, orthodontists may need to treat oral health issues like impacted wisdom teeth or gum diseases in both old and young patients. Addressing the problem ensures a healthy foundation for successful orthodontic treatment.
If you have gum disease, it can compromise the support structure of your teeth and make it challenging to get a perfect orthodontic treatment. Your dentist will treat your gum disease before starting the teeth straightening process.
Most people require surgery if their jaw is misaligned. Whatever the case, your orthodontist can team up with your oral surgeon or dentist to create a treatment plan that will help address underlying dental issues before starting orthodontic treatment.
Factors that Determine the Right Age for Braces
Determining the right age for braces might depend on your needs and treatment goals. Your orthodontist will consider factors like dental development, orthodontic issues, and oral health before deciding when your treatment should begin. Here are some factors:
Dental Development
The right time to get braces is connected to a patient’s dental development. For instance, the ideal time for braces often coincides with how fast or what happens during the process. Some kids in their early teenage years, around ages 10-14, may already develop dental problems, including misaligned teeth and jaws.
Orthodontic issues are often most effectively treated when addressed during specific stages of an individual’s dental development. This makes it easy to correct or prevent dental problems in the future. So, kids can wear braces if most of their permanent teeth have already erupted. For adults, as long as the gums and teeth are healthy, orthodontic treatment can be a viable option, regardless of age.
Dental Alignment Evaluation
Before considering braces, you must assess your dental health. If you have severe alignment issues, achieving a successful result with orthodontic treatment can be challenging. A dentist or orthodontist will evaluate the alignment of your jaw structure and the positioning of your teeth to determine the best treatment approach for your specific needs. Addressing alignment issues early can help prevent your teeth from worsening and potentially reduce the need for expensive and complex treatment later.
Common Signs You Might Need Braces
If you need braces, there will be signs. People opt for braces if their teeth are crooked, crowded, or have so many gaps. You also know it is time to get braces if you have jaw pain, discomfort, or bite problems, including crossbite, underbite, or overbite. It is necessary to fix your smile because it can affect your well-being. Braces can significantly improve your appearance and oral health and lower the risk of dental problems like tooth decay and wear.
Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment
Treating orthodontic problems early can prevent several issues over time. Other benefits include improved outcomes, seamless treatment, and aesthetic and oral health. Treating alignment issues early can help address other dental and oral health problems, leading to a healthier life.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there is no perfect age for braces. Instead, it is determined by some factors, including a patient’s dental development, individual treatment plan, and the severity of their alignment problem. Orthodontics recommends wearing braces in early teens, but they can be effective at any age. Adults can opt for Invisalign or other discreet orthodontic options to correct their smile without traditional metal braces. Ultimately, you must consult your orthodontist to help you determine the best treatment approach depending on your needs.