At what age should a child have braces: when to see an orthodontist

Children usually get braces once the baby teeth have gone — at around 11 to 13. But the first orthodontic check-up should come much earlier, at six or seven: at that age the doctor can see how the jaws are growing and, if needed, guide the bite gently with simple appliances, long before braces. Here is when to take your child to an orthodontist, and how early correction differs from late.

When to take a child to an orthodontist for the first time

The best age for a first check-up is six or seven. At that point the child has both baby teeth and the first permanent ones, so the orthodontist can assess the bite, the width of the jaws and the direction in which they are growing. Most often it means nothing more than an annual review with no treatment at all — but sometimes an early look saves a difficult course of treatment later.

At what age braces are fitted

Conventional braces are fitted once most of the permanent teeth have come through — usually at 11 to 13. By then the enamel and the roots are ready for the load. The exact moment is individual and depends on how quickly the child's teeth change.

Early correction (6–10 years): plates, trainers and expanders

At a younger age, removable plates, trainers and palatal expanders are used instead of braces. They do not move individual teeth; they gently guide the growth of the jaws, widening the arch, breaking bad habits (thumb-sucking, mouth breathing) and correcting a crossbite. It is a preparatory stage that can reduce or simplify the braces treatment that follows.

Late correction, and whether it is too late for a teenager

Missing the early window is not critical. In teenagers of 14 to 16 the bite corrects beautifully with braces or aligners, and the bone still responds well. A bite can be corrected at any age, adults included — it is simply faster and easier in children and teenagers.

Signs that your child already needs an orthodontist

See an orthodontist sooner if you notice: crowded or crooked teeth, a crossbite or a deep bite, breathing mainly through the mouth, thumb-sucking after the age of three or four, baby teeth lost very early or very late, asymmetry of the jaws or face, or difficulty chewing. Catching it early almost always means simpler and cheaper treatment.

Early and main correction — a short comparison

Frequently asked questions