Orthodontic treatment, commonly known as getting braces, corrects misaligned teeth and improper bite patterns (malocclusions). The goal is to improve both oral function and the appearance of the smile by moving teeth into optimal positions. Determining the best time to begin treatment depends on an individual’s dental development, specific needs, and growth patterns. Therefore, there is no single ideal age for everyone.
The Recommended Age for the First Orthodontic Check-Up
The first step in orthodontic treatment is an initial evaluation, which the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) suggests should occur around age seven. By this age, most children have a mix of primary (baby) teeth and permanent incisors and first molars, a stage known as mixed dentition. This allows the orthodontist to assess the relationship between the jaws and the emerging permanent teeth. The check-up focuses on monitoring growth and identifying early signs of severe issues, such as crossbites, crowding, or harmful oral habits. Identifying problems early provides the opportunity for interceptive treatment, if needed, to create a better environment for permanent teeth.
Early Intervention (Phase I) Treatment
If a significant skeletal or dental problem is identified during the initial check-up, the orthodontist may recommend Phase I, or interceptive, treatment, typically between the ages of six and ten. This limited treatment is performed while the child is growing and has many baby teeth. The purpose of Phase I is not to achieve perfectly straight teeth, but to correct severe problems that are easier to address while the jawbones are malleable. Interceptive treatment often involves specialized appliances, such as palatal expanders or partial braces, which can prevent issues from becoming more complex and potentially avoid the need for future extractions or jaw surgery. Following Phase I, there is usually a rest period where the remaining permanent teeth are allowed to erupt naturally.
The Traditional Window for Full Braces
The traditional and most common time for full, comprehensive braces is between the ages of 10 and 14, either for patients who did not require Phase I treatment or as the second part of a two-phase plan (Phase II). This period is considered optimal because almost all permanent teeth (except wisdom teeth) have erupted. The patient is also often going through the pubertal growth spurt, which is the most significant advantage. This accelerated growth maximizes the orthodontist’s ability to guide the relationship between the upper and lower jaws and allows for efficient skeletal correction. Full braces are applied to all permanent teeth to achieve the final, precise alignment and correct bite, concluding with the use of retainers.
Orthodontic Treatment for Adults
Orthodontics is an effective option for people of any age, including those who missed the adolescent window or require treatment later in life; currently, one in four orthodontic patients is an adult. Adult treatment, however, presents different considerations because the jawbones are fully developed and no longer growing. Since growth has ceased, skeletal discrepancies may be limited in correction without surgical intervention, though most tooth alignment issues can be successfully resolved. Adults often prefer more discreet options, such as clear aligners or ceramic braces, to minimize the visual impact of treatment. Common reasons for adult treatment include addressing long-standing alignment issues, correcting bite problems related to restorative dental work, or managing tooth movement caused by periodontal issues.