Many parents ask the same question: “What is the best age to get braces?”
The answer depends on your child’s development, dental health, and the type of orthodontic problem involved. While every child is different, dental professionals follow general guidelines to help determine the best time to begin orthodontic treatment.
This guide explains how old you have to be to get braces, the signs your child may need treatment, and how orthodontic dentists decide when to start braces for children’s teeth.
Key orthodontic timing guidelines
NOTE: Early assessments do not always mean your child will need braces straight away. They simply help a dental professional monitor development and plan treatment if needed.
- Orthodontics Australia recommends a first orthodontic assessment between the ages of seven and 10
- Most children start braces between 10 and 14 years old
- Early orthodontic checks help identify potential problems before they become complex
- Children, teens, and adults can benefit from orthodontic treatment at any age.
When should your child first see an orthodontic dentist?
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As mentioned above, Orthodontics Australia recommends that most children have their first orthodontic assessment between the ages of seven and 10. At this age, many children still have baby teeth, but their permanent teeth are beginning to emerge. This mix makes it easier for orthodontists to identify potential alignment issues.
Early visits allow a dental professional to evaluate:
- Jaw positioning and bite development
- Spacing between teeth
- Early crowding or crooked teeth
- Habits like thumb sucking or mouth breathing
Early assessments rarely mean your child will immediately start orthodontic treatment. In many cases, the orthodontist simply recommends monitoring growth through regular check-ups.
Why timing matters for orthodontic treatment
Orthodontic treatment often involves two stages, Phase 1 and Phase 2.
Phase 1: early intervention orthodontics
Phase 1 treatment usually occurs between ages seven and 10, when some baby teeth are still present. This early intervention orthodontics approach focuses on guiding jaw positioning and making enough room for incoming adult teeth.
Early treatment may help:
- Reduce severe crowding
- Correct bite issues early
- Prevent future dental problems
- Improve breathing or speech development
Because children’s bones are still developing, orthodontists can guide jaw growth more easily at this stage.
Phase 2: braces after permanent teeth emerge
Phase 2 treatment usually occurs between 10 and 14 years of age. At this point, most children have their adult teeth, making it the ideal time to place orthodontic braces to straighten teeth and correct alignment issues.
This is why many parents associate this age range with the best age to get braces.
Signs your child might need braces sooner
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Parents are often the first to notice changes in their child’s teeth or bite. You might consider booking an orthodontic assessment if your child has:
- Crooked teeth or crowded teeth
- Teeth that do not meet properly when biting
- Early or delayed loss of baby teeth
- Thumb sucking beyond age 5
- Frequent mouth breathing
- Difficulty chewing or biting food
- Jaw shifting or clicking
These signs do not always mean your child needs braces, but they are worth discussing with an orthodontic dentist.
Understanding common bite problems
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Orthodontists often treat conditions known as malocclusions, which simply means that teeth or jaws are misaligned. Common examples include:
- Open bite: The upper and lower teeth do not touch when the mouth closes.
- Underbite: The lower teeth sit in front of the upper teeth.
- Overbite: The top teeth overlap the lower teeth more than normal.
These alignment issues can affect chewing, speech, and long-term oral health if left untreated.
How old do you have to be to get braces?
Parents often ask, “How old do you have to be to get braces?” In reality, there is no strict minimum age. Braces are usually placed once enough permanent teeth have emerged. For most children, this happens between 10 and 14 years old, making this the most common time to get braces.
However, orthodontic dentists consider several factors before recommending treatment, including:
- Jaw growth and development
- The number of permanent teeth present
- Severity of alignment issues
- Overall child’s dental health
These factors help determine the best age to start treatment.
Types of braces for kids
Modern orthodontics offers several types of braces designed for different needs.
Traditional metal braces
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Traditional metal braces remain the most common option for children. They use brackets and wires to gradually guide teeth into alignment.
Benefits include:
- Reliable results for complex cases
- Durable design for active kids
- Often the most affordable option
Ceramic braces
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Ceramic braces use tooth-coloured brackets, making them less noticeable than traditional braces. They function the same way as metal braces but blend more naturally with teeth.
Lingual braces
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Lingual braces sit behind the teeth, making them nearly invisible when smiling. They are less commonly used for children but may be suitable in certain cases.
Clear aligners
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Older children and teens may qualify for clear aligners or invisible braces. These removable trays gradually move teeth and are popular with teens who prefer a more discreet option. However, clear aligners require consistent wear to be effective.
What happens if you delay braces too long?
Delaying orthodontic treatment can sometimes lead to additional dental problems. Untreated alignment issues may contribute to:
- Increased risk of tooth decay or gum disease
- Uneven tooth wear
- Difficulty cleaning between teeth
- Jaw strain or headaches
- More complex treatment later
Early orthodontic assessment allows professionals to identify potential problems before they become more difficult to correct.
Treatment time for braces
Most children wear braces for 18 to 24 months, though treatment time can vary depending on the case. Factors influencing treatment time include:
- Severity of crooked teeth
- Jaw development
- The type of braces used
- Patient cooperation with care instructions
Elastic bands, regular adjustments, and good oral hygiene all help ensure treatment progresses as planned.
Remember: emotional readiness matters too
Starting braces involves more than physical development. Children should also feel ready to take care of their braces. This includes:
- Brushing carefully around brackets and wires
- Avoiding sticky or hard foods
- Attending regular orthodontic appointments
Parents can help by talking positively about braces and explaining how they help straighten teeth and create a healthy smile.
Costs and planning for braces
Orthodontic treatment is a long-term investment in your child’s oral health. Costs vary depending on:
- The type of braces chosen
- Treatment complexity
- Length of treatment
Some private health insurance policies provide orthodontic benefits, and many clinics offer payment plans to make treatment more manageable.
Early assessments can help families plan ahead and understand potential treatment options.
FAQs we get from local parents
Is seven too young for braces?
Age seven is usually when orthodontic dentists recommend the first orthodontic assessment. Treatment does not always begin at this age.
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
Most braces treatments last 18 to 24 months, although more complex cases may take longer.
Can adults get braces later in life?
Yes. Many adults start orthodontic treatment later in life to improve alignment and oral health.
The bottom line: when should children get braces?
If you’re wondering what the best age to get braces is, the general guidance is:
- Age 7: first orthodontic assessment
- Ages 10–14: most children start braces
- Early assessments help prevent complex dental problems later
Every child develops differently, so the best timing depends on individual growth and dental needs. A qualified orthodontic dentist can assess your child’s teeth and jaw development and recommend the right time to start treatment—so contact us to book an initial consultation today!
