Parents want the best for their children, including a straight smile that they can be proud to show off. When you start to notice that your kids’ teeth may not be aligned properly, you should consider bringing them into the dentist to be assessed for braces.

You might encounter a lot of contrasting information when it comes to what age a child should be before considering braces for them. To help you make the right choice for your children, you will need to know these tips.

Early Teen Years Are Ideal

The sooner you consider braces for your child, the better the outcome typically is. Most experts recommend that children get braces between the ages of 10 to 14. Between these ages, children still have growing to do with their face and mouth. Shifting their teeth during this time can be significantly easier than it is later in life. Your child’s teeth will cooperate a lot better during the process during these ages.

Self-Conscious Kids

Getting braces later in life might be better for self-conscious kids. If your child already struggles with self-esteem and identity issues, you might want to wait to get them braces. A significant change in appearance like that could be notably disconcerting to an already sensitive child. They might be more susceptive to low self-esteem and teasing due to their perception of themselves with braces. As a parent, you might want to consider waiting until they are a teen and more secure with themselves before opting for this procedure.

The Sooner You Check, The Sooner You Can Address Issues

If your dentist spots significant problems with your child’s alignment of their teeth or jaw, you should get them braces as soon as their dentist makes the recommendation. Waiting a few years can cause the problem to worsen, requiring more intensive orthodontic work at a higher price tag. You can explain to your child that they will be stuck wearing braces for longer to correct if their condition becomes more serious.

Generally, orthodontic treatment can be applied at any age. If your child is struggling because of a misaligned bite or smile, you may want to consider seeking treatment earlier rather than later. A few warning signs that your child needs braces could include:

  • Clearly crooked teeth
  • Difficulty when biting and chewing food
  • Shifting jaw
  • Teeth that do not touch at all
  • Frequently biting the mouth

At KR Dental, we are proud to have experienced dentists who can help answer your questions about your children’s oral health. Our team of professionals can help you decide when the time is right to evaluate and start treating your child’s dental issues with braces. Book an appointment today to bring your child in so that we can have a look and discuss your options before problems worsen.