Article written by Diamond Braces Clinical Staff
Article medically reviewed by Dr. Oleg Drut
Most children who need braces start them between about ages 9 and 14, once enough permanent teeth have come in. The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends a first orthodontic check-up no later than age 7, but that visit is a screening, not the start of braces. Most kids are simply monitored, and only some bite problems are treated early.
What Is the Right Age for Braces?
There is no single right age. The AAO says there is no one chronological age for orthodontic treatment; timing depends on how your child's teeth and jaws are developing. In practice it usually falls into three windows:
- Around age 7: first check-up. The orthodontist looks at the bite while baby and adult teeth are mixed.
- Ages 7 to 10 (only if needed): early or "phase one" treatment for problems that are easier to correct while the jaw is growing.
- Ages 9 to 14: the most common time to start full braces, when most permanent teeth are in.
Older teens and adults can get braces too. For a closer look at each age group, see how old you have to be to get braces.
Why the AAO Recommends a Check-Up by Age 7
By about age 7, the first adult molars and front teeth have usually come in. That gives an orthodontist enough to see how the back teeth meet and whether the jaws are growing in balance. According to the AAO, catching some problems at this stage lets the orthodontist recommend treatment at the most appropriate time, and some results may be harder to reach once the face and jaws stop growing. You do not need a referral from your dentist to book this visit. Harvard School of Dental Medicine adds that if your child is already older than 7, it is still worth getting a check-up, since most problems can be treated at any age.
Signs Your Child Might Need Braces
Book an evaluation sooner if you notice:
- Crowded, overlapping or noticeably crooked teeth
- Upper teeth that stick out far past the lower teeth
- Lower teeth that sit in front of the upper teeth (underbite)
- Upper teeth that bite inside the lower teeth on one side (crossbite)
- Front teeth that don't touch when the back teeth are together (open bite)
- Losing baby teeth much earlier or later than usual
- Trouble chewing, a jaw that shifts or clicks, or a thumb- or finger-sucking habit past the toddler years
What Happens at the First Visit
The first orthodontic visit is short and painless. The orthodontist will usually:
- Look at your child's teeth, bite and jaw.
- Take photos and X-rays or a digital scan if needed.
- Explain what they see and whether to treat now, later or not at all.
- If treatment is recommended, go over the plan, the expected timeline and the cost.
For many 7-year-olds the result is "come back in 6 to 12 months so we can keep an eye on growth."
What to Expect Once Braces Go On
- Getting them on: placing braces is done in one visit and doesn't need shots. Some children need spacers between the back teeth first; see what to know about orthodontic spacers.
- The first few days: teeth often feel sore. KidsHealth (Nemours) notes that soft foods and an over-the-counter pain reliever can help; ask the orthodontist or your child's doctor which product and dose is right for your child. Orthodontic wax covers any bracket that rubs the cheek.
- Check-ups: the wire is adjusted gradually at regular visits, every few weeks.
- How long: the average is about two years, according to KidsHealth, though it depends on the case.
- Afterward: a retainer keeps teeth in place. Learn more about retainers.
Helping Your Child Adjust
- Food: skip hard, sticky and chewy foods such as hard candy, caramel, gum, popcorn and whole apples; cut crunchy foods into small pieces. The orthodontist will give you a full list. For treats, see whether you can eat ice cream with braces.
- Brushing: brush after meals and floss daily with a threader or water flosser. Plaque around brackets can leave white spots on teeth.
- Sports: use a mouthguard made to fit over braces.
- Loose bracket or poking wire: cover it with wax and call the office. Don't cut or pull the wire at home.
- Style: letting kids pick their band colors can make braces feel less like a chore.
Braces Options for Kids
Most children wear traditional metal braces, which work for a wide range of cases. Ceramic braces work the same way with tooth-colored brackets. Clear aligners may suit some older kids and teens who have most of their adult teeth and will wear them as directed. For more answers by age, see the braces age FAQ.
Braces for Kids at Diamond Braces
Flexible payment plans are available. Monthly payments vary based on treatment cost, insurance benefits, down payment and payment term. Your final fee may depend on the complexity of your case, the estimated length of treatment, the appliance you choose, your insurance benefits, current promotions and your final treatment plan. Your exact fee is confirmed after your orthodontic evaluation.
Find the Diamond Braces office nearest you to book your child's evaluation.
FAQ
What is the best age for braces for kids?
Most kids start braces between about 9 and 14. The best time for your child depends on how their teeth and jaws are developing, which is why the AAO recommends a check-up by age 7.
Can a 7-year-old get braces?
Some can, but most don't need them yet. At 7, an orthodontist usually monitors growth. A small number of children benefit from early treatment for issues like crossbites or severe crowding.
Is 13 too late for braces?
No. Early teens are one of the most common ages to start braces, and teeth can be moved at any age.
Do braces hurt kids?
Putting braces on doesn't hurt. Teeth are often sore for a few days after placement and after adjustments, and that soreness usually fades quickly.
Sources
- American Association of Orthodontists. Child orthodontics FAQ and "Your Child's First Orthodontic Check-up: No Later than Age 7."
- Harvard School of Dental Medicine. When should children first visit the orthodontist?
- KidsHealth from Nemours. Braces (for parents).
