How Young Is Too Young for Braces? (The Answer Might Surprise You)

What Happens During Your Child’s First Orthodontic Appointment?

For almost all children, an initial orthodontic appointment is simple and non-invasive. It won’t involve installing any orthodontic appliances and is generally completely pain-free.

The initial appointment is simply an expert evaluation of orthodontic health. The appointment will begin with a discussion of overall oral health and any concerns you might have noticed. Then, the doctor will examine your child’s mouth and make recommendations for continued monitoring or treatment.

In some cases, dental imaging, like X-rays, may be recommended. You’ll leave the appointment with a clear understanding of your child’s future orthodontic needs.

Phase Zero: Orthodontic Evaluation and Monitoring

Orthodontic treatment comes in three phases, zero through two. The initial phase, zero, can be thought of as simply observation and monitoring of the development of your child’s orthodontic health. Your child’s first orthodontic appointment falls within this phase.

During this phase, our orthodontists will assess jaw growth, tooth eruption, spacing, and bite. We’ll also make recommendations for future treatment, if appropriate, and let you know about concerns to watch out for.

Most children are simply monitored at this stage because their jaws and teeth have not yet developed to a point where orthodontic treatment is beneficial.

What Is Phase One of Orthodontic Treatment?

Phase one of orthodontic treatment is called “interceptive orthodontics.” This consists of treatment for young children, typically between 7 and 10 years old. It usually begins when your child has some, but not all, of their adult teeth. The purpose of this phase is to identify and fix issues while the jaw and face are still growing.

These issues include problems with jaw development, tooth spacing and crowding, and bite issues. Usually, this phase is focused on correcting structural problems rather than straightening teeth as is common with traditional braces.

Treatments might include orthodontic appliances, such as palate expanders, partial braces, and other interventions. Importantly, not every child who is evaluated for phase one will need treatment.

What Is Phase Two of Orthodontic Treatment?

Phase two of orthodontic treatment occurs after all permanent teeth erupt and includes traditional braces. This phase is comprehensive and aims to complete orthodontic treatment to provide a smile that is both beautiful and healthy.

Issues may include bite correction, tooth alignment, and any other lingering orthodontic issues.

Absolute Dental offers many options for braces for each unique situation.

Options include:

• Traditional braces: The tried-and-true option for straightening teeth is also the most cost effective.
• Lingual braces: Like traditional braces but placed on the back (the lingual side) of the teeth, so they are less noticeable.
• Ceramic braces: Sometimes referred to as “clear braces,” these use ceramic, rather than metal, brackets and are less noticeable.
• Self-ligating braces: Braces where the wire is not directly attached to the brackets and can float freely within them, potentially shortening treatment time for some people.
• Clear aligners: A series of plastic trays that may be temporarily removed to eat or for special occasions. These are the least noticeable, but the costliest, and not suitable for every case of misalignment.

What Happens After Braces?

After your child receives braces and other orthodontic interventions, they will enter the retention phase. This phase is focused on keeping the teeth in place and not shifting further. This phase may last for several years after your child’s braces are removed.

In most cases, your child will receive a retainer that they will be instructed to wear at night. This will help keep teeth in place with a minimum of discomfort. There may be additional interventions that your doctor will recommend.

When Do Most Children Actually Get Braces?

Every child is different, and the question of how young for braces will be unique for your son or daughter. However, the most comprehensive treatment happens between the ages of 9 and 14.

Some children will receive orthodontic interventions, such as spacers, at an early age, and some may be slightly older when receiving comprehensive care. Again, timing depends on a number of factors, including tooth eruption and growth.

Why Las Vegas Families Choose Absolute Dental for Orthodontic Care

Our team at Absolute Dental are experts in family-focused care and convenient dental services. We offer personalized plans for every one of our patients, modern technology in the most comfortable and up-to-date offices, and flexible scheduling.

Come experience the Absolute Dental difference at multiple locations across Las Vegas and even more in Nevada. We offer affordable services, wide insurance acceptance, and multiple ways to pay.

Schedule Your Child’s Orthodontic Evaluation Today

When it comes to your child’s teeth, early evaluation is key. Early evaluation can identify problems at a time when they are easier and more affordable to treat. An evaluation doesn’t always mean treatment, either.