Many patients wonder what is the best age to get braces. And if you’re older than 18, you also may be thinking that you’re too old for braces. Well, the good news is that anyone at any age can get braces! At Jarosz & Valente Orthodontics, we strive to provide comprehensive treatment to everyone of all ages. Whether you’re an adult who is looking to start braces for yourself or your child, learn how orthodontists determine what age is best for orthodontics.
Factors to Consider
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What Problems Do You Have?- The American Association of Orthodontics (AAO) recommends that people start visiting orthodontics at around the age of 7, or when their dentist recommends. However, anyone can visit an orthodontist at any age. An orthodontist will be able to evaluate a person’s bite, oral habits, and jaw structure to determine if orthodontic treatment is necessary. Some early warning signs of orthodontic problems include:
- Trouble chewing or biting
- Mouth breathing
- Finger sucking (in children)
- Crowded or misplaced teeth
- Difficulty speaking
- Cheek biting or biting into the roof of the mouth
- Protruding teeth
- Teeth grinding or clenching
If you’re a parent that notices a tooth problem early on in their children, they may require braces. This is when early treatment is necessary, and most kids get braces when they are between 9 and 14 years old. Receiving early orthodontic treatment can prevent oral problems from happening in the future as an adult. In some cases, certain issues cannot be corrected once a child’s face and jaw stop growing.
- What to Expect During Treatment- Once your orthodontist decides that you need treatment, you’ll then be able to decide what type of braces or appliance you’ll get. Oftentimes, kids will get traditional metal braces. For adults, they have more options, such as clear aligners or ceramic braces. In some cases, kids may qualify for clear removable braces or other orthodontic devices. An orthodontist may also recommend that you or your child have one or more teeth removed to create additional space in the mouth.
- Side Effects- With regular checkups and consultations, your orthodontist will take every precaution to ensure side effects are taken into consideration. While rare, potential side effects of braces can include: tooth decay, relapse (teeth reverting to original position), allergic reactions, and other issues.
Clear Aligners
There is no age limit requirement for clear aligners treatment. clear aligners can be chosen in any phase of life; this includes children, teenagers, and adults. However, some orthodontists may suggest braces for children and clear aligners for teenagers/adults since clear aligners requires compliance and discipline. Wearing the aligner for a long period can be quite tough and you must be mature enough to follow the rules to see effective results.
Get Orthodontic Treatment From Jarosz & Valente Orthodontics!
No matter what age you or your child is, we offer orthodontic treatment to everyone! At Jarosz & Valente Orthodontics, we offer early, adolescent, and adult orthodontic treatments that are customized to every patient’s needs. To get started today, schedule a consultation! If you have any questions, feel free to contact our Arlington Heights and Deerfield offices. We can’t wait to work with you!