Kids and teens often get orthodontic treatments to help correct their teeth while they’re still young. But does age really matter when it comes to orthodontic treatments? And if so, what’s the best age to get one?
When Should You Get Orthodontic Treatment?
The best time to get orthodontic treatment is as early as possible. If a child has a tooth alignment problem, they should see an orthodontist as soon as possible. Teeth alignment is a complex process, and usually, a problem like this can only be rectified with the help of a trained professional.
In younger children, the alignment problem may only be slight and may not be apparent to the naked eye. However, even these slight problems will cause teeth to become crooked over time. In younger children, the teeth are still relatively malleable, allowing them to be reshaped more easily. Orthodontic treatment helps the teeth maintain a straight shape.
If you have children and they have small problems with their smiles, you should bring up their concerns with their primary care doctor. Your doctor will have more information about when to seek treatment and how to go about scheduling appointments.
What If the Child Still Has Baby Teeth?
Orthodontic treatment is more complex when the child still has baby teeth, but it’s still possible for mild alignment problems. A less complicated process, called “interceptive orthodontics,” may be able to correct problems with the child’s young teeth.
Interceptive orthodontics is a nonsurgical, noninvasive procedure that has been proven effective in helping to correct mild cases of malocclusion (misalignment). It involves custom-fitted, clear plastic retainers made specifically for each child. The retainers are worn overnight, or any time the teeth are together. They gently push the teeth into the right position when they’re together.
This type of orthodontic treatment helps maintain the shape of the child’s teeth, so they will be straight once they lose their baby teeth and grow adult teeth.
Can You Be Too Old to Get Orthodontic Treatment?
Orthodontic treatments are mostly applied when the teeth are malformed or crooked, such as when one of your children has an overbite.
But some orthodontic treatments, like orthodontic braces, can also be used for cosmetic purposes. For example, many adults decide to get braces to get their teeth straightened for a pretty smile. But can an adult be too old for orthodontic treatment?
In short, no. Teeth can be reshaped and moved around at any age. However, orthodontic treatments like braces can be more complicated when you are older. The older you are, the more complicated it is to reshape your teeth and move them around.
If you are old enough to have adult teeth but still young enough to get a treatment like braces, you should probably wait until you’re older. If you are getting an orthodontic treatment done, it’s best to get it done as early as possible.
If you’ve already passed the age where you can get orthodontic treatments like braces, or if you are past the “correctable age” for your teeth alignment, you still have options. There are many cases where orthodontic treatment is needed, but it’s too late for conventional treatment.
Final Thoughts
If you have young children, you should seek medical attention if you notice any abnormal problems with their smiles. The sooner you seek help, the easier it is to correct any small problems with their teeth.
Straighten your teeth with the help of Solarte Orthodontics. We are a family orthodontist in Manassas that assists patients of all ages. We are committed to delivering the highest quality dental care with the latest state-of-the-art technology. Book an appointment now!
