Ask the Expert: when is the best time to get orthodontic treatment?
Aug 21
Getting braces (aka orthodontic treatment)
A short guest “Ask the Expert” article addressing braces and timing brought to you by your friendly neighborhood orthodontist! Dr. Doi from High Plains Orthodontics explains the basics of when it’s the right time to pursue orthodontic treatment for your child and, possibly, yourself.
When is the best time to get my child braces?
Parents often ask when the ideal time is to bring their child in for an orthodontic examination. Officially, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends age 7. This is when most children have some permanent incisors in (or erupting) and the 6-year molars (first permanent molars for those of you who prefer proper dental nomenclature). At this age, the jaws are still developing and can be modified, if needed.
Ideally, orthodontics would not begin until all the permanent teeth are in but there are some situations that should be addressed when there is a mixture of adult and baby teeth. After an initial consultation, the orthodontist will determine if any orthodontic treatment is indicated or if just monitoring until all the permanent teeth are in is the way to go.
How about orthodontic treatment for everyone else?
Well, how about everyone else? Orthodontics isn’t just for people who are still growing. Anytime you have a question about your smile, bite, alignment of your teeth (spacing, crowding, etc.), any jaw related issues, can be evaluated by an orthodontist. Teeth move at any age. So it doesn’t hurt to get braces as an adult either.
In conclusion…
So, when you start seeing those permanent teeth coming in, ask Dr. McVey if it’s time to make an appointment to see the orthodontist. If you have any questions, Dr. McVey can guide you. Until next time, keep smiling, flossing, and brushing!
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