A dentist’s advice: What age is best to start braces

A dentist’s advice: What age is best to start braces
      Many people may believe that orthodontic treatment (braces) should only begin during the teenage years—when baby teeth have fallen out and permanent teeth have come in. However, orthodontic treatment can actually begin as early as ages 6–7. Starting early makes it easier to correct dental issues because the teeth are not yet firmly rooted in the gums, making adjustments or extractions less painful and allowing teeth to align faster than in older children.

Let’s take a look at common dental issues in children that may require orthodontic care :

• Protruding front teeth – These are more prone to injury as they are not protected by the gums. They can absorb impact easily and cause severe damage to the dental nerves.
• Gapped teeth – Gaps between teeth can lead to crowding or crooked teeth as permanent teeth emerge. Gaps also make it easier for food debris to get stuck, making cleaning more difficult.
• Malocclusion (bad bite) – This can lead to abnormal jaw development and uneven pressure during chewing. It may cause the jaw to protrude and facial symmetry to become noticeably affected.
• Risky dental habits in children – Such as poor brushing (less than twice a day), teeth grinding during sleep, or tongue thrusting, all of which can contribute to orthodontic problems.

      Proper tooth alignment improves occlusion (bite), enhances the relationship between the teeth and jaw, and allows for better oral hygiene. This makes orthodontics an important and effective solution for long-term dental health. However, a dentist or orthodontist should evaluate each child individually to determine if treatment is necessary and when is the most appropriate time to start.


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