Are you unhappy with your smile? Has your dentist referred your child to us? Are you concerned you’re too old and feel skeptical that your child is old enough? Then you’ve come to the right place! Elm Tree Orthodontics wants to remove any confusion about the best age to get braces.
What Are Braces?
Braces are orthodontic treatments that improve the alignment of your teeth and jaw! There are two kinds of braces, fixed or removable, and both categories have a variety of options in them. At Elm Tree Orthodontics, we proudly offer several choices for our patients in Hamden and North Haven. Let’s check them out now.
- Metal Braces: A time-tested solution, these traditional braces have been the backbone of orthodontic treatment for decades. Their durable brackets and wires are suitable for correcting a wide range of dental misalignments, from simple to complex. And don’t let their age fool you! Metal braces have received many updates over the years and are as comfortable and attractive as ever. Traditional metal braces are the only braces at Elm Tree Orthodontics that require you to adjust your diet and oral hygiene.
- InBrace: InBrace braces have revolutionized the concept of discretion in orthodontics by cleverly positioning their device behind the teeth. This placement means patients can undergo treatment without the visible hardware, making it a favorite among those who desire privacy.
- Clear Aligners: If you seek a blend of flexibility and aesthetics, then clear aligners are the go-to choice. Custom-made and transparent, they can be removed for meals and special occasions. Their subtle appearance ensures that the focus remains on your smile, not the treatment.
Braces enhance the aesthetic appeal of one’s smile and guarantee proper bite function and oral health! Whether addressing overcrowding, gaps, overbites, or underbites, braces work methodically to rectify these issues, laying the foundation for a harmonious and healthy smile.
Who Qualifies For Braces?
Do any of the above treatment options sound interesting to you, but feel your or your child’s age makes you ineligible for braces? Well, we have good news! Neither of you is too old or too young for braces!
That’s right! Though braces are commonly associated with teenagers, anyone with healthy teeth, gums, and bones can become an orthodontic patient.
With that said, however, we do encourage you or your child to get an orthodontic assessment as soon as possible. Personalized advice based on a thorough examination ensures that the timing is just right. Speaking to an orthodontist demystifies the alignment process, allowing you to plan ahead and understand what treatments might be on the horizon.
Younger Patients
Most orthodontists, including our Dr. Desai, agree that children should see an orthodontist by age seven. Children’s jaws are still developing at this age, and their first permanent teeth have usually come in, so orthodontists can spot current or potential issues like crowding, gaps, or bite problems that might require treatment.
In most youngster cases, no immediate action is required, making your child eligible to join Dr. Desai’s 7 & Up Kids Club! Once enrolled, Dr. Desai and his fantastic team will monitor your child’s smile as they grow so treatment can begin at the optimal time.
However, early assessments are critical in determining if your child should start care sooner rather than later. For some kids, starting care now can prevent more complex challenges when they’re older. For instance, guiding jaw growth at this stage can provide plenty of space for incoming adult teeth, reducing the likelihood of extractions or more invasive treatments in adulthood.
Young children will likely only get partial metal braces instead of a complete set.
Teens
This is usually considered the “sweet spot” for braces. By this age, most permanent teeth have made their grand entrance, and the jaw has developed but not solidified, making it an opportune time to guide teeth into their ideal positions.
Teens are also at that age where they can actively participate in their treatment. They can handle the responsibility and make educated decisions that align with their treatment program.
They will get a complete set of braces and might have a few options to pick from depending on the severity of their needs.
Adults
Because the bones of adults have solidified, making alignment adjustments can be a little trickier. But, as we mentioned earlier, it’s possible—and completely worth it!
More adults than ever before are pursuing orthodontic treatment, and some believe it is because of how many braces options are available now. Our removable Invisalign and Spark clear aligners and our fixed hidden InBrace braces give our adult patients freedom, flexibility, and subtlety.
A better alignment later in life can boost oral health, self-confidence, and overall quality of life. Remember, it’s never too late to invest in yourself!
So, Which Age Is Best?
There is no “best” age! Deciding on the right time for braces isn’t just about how many times you’ve traveled around the sun; several factors come into play.
- Alignment Needs: Some kids might have issues best addressed early, while others can wait a bit longer to begin treatment.
- Oral Health: We can’t alter your alignments if your mouth isn’t healthy! We’ll collaborate with your dentist to get your teeth and gums ready for movement if necessary.
- Family History: If mom or dad needed braces as a young child, there’s a chance their kids might follow suit.
- Growth: Everyone grows at their own pace; sometimes, the jaw or teeth might need a little extra time to be ready before starting orthodontic treatment.
Visit Elm Tree Orthodontics For More Information!
The most accurate, safest way to determine if you or a loved one are ready for treatment is to receive a free consultation from Dr. Desai at Elm Tree Orthodontics! Schedule yours today and get started on your journey to a healthier attractive smile and functional bite!