Braces for Kids: What's the Ideal Age?

The age a child has dental braces fitted depends on the initial diagnosis of the orthodontist. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that evaluation of a child's mouth be done at the age of seven.

Malocclusion

• Malocclusion starts to present itself when the adult teeth start to come through.

  Braces are usually fitted to correct problems such as crooked teeth or a bad bite. Upper teeth misaligned with the lower teeth is known as malocclusion.

Adult Teeth

• As the adult teeth begin to appear around the age of 6 years and onwards, dentists are able to spot potential problems as they appear. Once a significant number of adult teeth have come through, it is best to fit braces as early as possible.

Optimum Results

• Braces should be fitted as early as possible.

  The best results are achieved while the child is still growing. ADA suggests treating a child for malocclusion between the ages of 8 and 14.