The short answer is – “it depends.” This is a fairly common question among the patients and family members that visit us as South Surrey Smiles. It really comes down to the individual’s growth and development. While it is never too late to get braces in life, there are some benefits to being treated when there is growth to work with. This is why you see so many teens wearing braces.

Child Braces: Recommended Start Is The Age Of 7

I like to see kids by the age of 7. Age 7 is also recommended by the American Association of Orthodontists. By the age of 7, kids are starting to lose some of their baby teeth and they are getting new adult teeth. It is an important time to assess kids to see if they will have room for all of their permanent teeth and to make sure their upper and lower jaws are growing at the same rate. Treating problems like this is fairly simple in kids, however, if left untreated can lead to jaw surgery as an adult.

Being treated at the right stage of growth and development is key when we are referring to Braces for Children, they can provide additional benefits to the patient and the person paying the bill. Since bones are more malleable in younger people, the treatment will likely take less time. Financially speaking, younger patients are far more likely to have their treatments covered by dental insurance as well. The only major drawback to getting braces for your kids is associated with the amount of discipline it takes to keep up the necessary cleaning and care required for the braces to be effective.

Adult Braces: Anytime Is A Good Time

As an adult, getting braces can still make a lot of sense. In terms of overall health and appearance, braces for adults can do a lot to improve the condition of a person’s teeth and jaw, as well as their confidence and self esteem. Although the ideal time for braces is earlier in life, and patients should be screened for braces as early as seven years of age, braces are no less effective for adults. Treatments may take longer due to the full development of an adult’s teeth and jaw. In the end however, with proper care and treatment, adults stand to benefit just as much from braces as a young person.

No matter how old you are, the team at South Surrey Smiles will be happy to help you get that beautifully bright smile you’ve been looking for. Contact our office for a FREE Orthodontic Consultation.