When Should Children Get Braces?

When Should the First Orthodontic Examination Be Done?

The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that every child receive an orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this age, the mixed dentition period has begun, and potential issues can be detected at an early stage.

An examination at age 7 is to determine treatment necessity; it does not mean every child will get braces at this age. In most cases, the dentist recommends monitoring and determines the ideal treatment time.

Ideal Age Range for Braces Treatment

The most suitable age for traditional braces is 11-14, when all permanent teeth have erupted. During this period, the bone structure is still in the growth phase, making it easier to move teeth.

However, early intervention (Phase 1 treatment) may be necessary between ages 7-10 in some cases. Crossbite, narrow upper jaw, or severe jaw discrepancies are conditions that require early intervention.

What Are Phase 1 and Phase 2 Orthodontics?

Phase 1 treatment (early intervention): Short-term treatments applied between ages 7-10, aimed at guiding jaw development and preventing serious problems. Expanders, space maintainers, and functional appliances are used during this period.

Phase 2 treatment: Comprehensive braces treatment applied after all permanent teeth have erupted (ages 11-14). This stage aims to align all teeth and correct the bite. Children who received Phase 1 treatment typically have a shorter Phase 2.

Signs Your Child May Need Braces

An orthodontic evaluation is recommended if your child shows one or more of the following signs: crowded or overlapping teeth, early or late loss of baby teeth, mouth breathing habit, or continued thumb sucking.

Additionally, bite problems (upper teeth completely covering lower teeth or the lower jaw being forward), chewing difficulties, speech disorders, and jaw joint pain may also indicate the need for orthodontic treatment.

What to Expect During Braces Treatment

Braces treatment typically lasts 12-24 months. Mild pain and sensitivity in the first few days is normal and can be managed with soft foods and pain relievers. Monthly check-up appointments are used to adjust the wires.

Special attention must be paid to oral hygiene during treatment. Hard, sticky foods should be avoided. Using retention appliances after treatment is critically important for ensuring permanent results.

Metal Braces, Ceramic Brackets, or Clear Aligners?

Metal brackets are the most durable and economical option. Ceramic (clear) brackets are less noticeable aesthetically but slightly more fragile. Clear aligners (Invisalign) offer hygiene advantages due to being removable.

We will determine the most suitable method together based on your child's age, the type of orthodontic issue, and family preferences. Each method has its own unique advantages and the right choice should be personalized.

Frequently Asked Questions

At what age do children get braces?

Comprehensive braces begin when all permanent teeth are in place (age 11-14). Phase 1 (early intervention) targeted limited braces can be applied at age 7-10. The AAO (American Association of Orthodontists) recommends the first evaluation at age 7.

How many months/years are braces worn?

Typical pediatric orthodontic treatment duration is 12-24 months. Complex cases may extend up to 30 months. Phase 1 targeted limited treatments last 6-12 months. A retainer is mandatory after treatment — full-time for the first 6-12 months, then night-only.

Are braces painful for children?

The first bracket placement session is painless (adhesive + light). For 3-5 days afterward, mild discomfort from tooth movement pressure may occur; paracetamol (weight-based dose, pediatrician recommendation) is sufficient. Similar 1-2 day adaptation follows each adjustment visit.

What are the costs of braces for children under 18?

In Turkey, regulations (Law 1219) prohibit advertising private dental fees. General comparison: metal braces most affordable; ceramic ~30% more, lingual ~80% more, Invisalign Teen ~40-80% more. For an exact figure, a written treatment plan after clinical examination is required.

What foods should a child with braces avoid?

Avoid: hard candies, sticky sweets, gum, nuts, popcorn, hard bread crust, seeds, ice. These can break brackets or bend wires. Recommended: soft foods, small bites, fruits cut into small pieces (e.g., apple).

How long must a retainer be worn after braces in children?

After braces are removed, a retainer is MANDATORY. Full-time for the first 6-12 months (day + night, except for eating + brushing); then night-only, **lifelong**. Without a retainer, teeth tend to relapse to their previous position.

Can a child play sports with braces?

Yes, but a mouthguard is MANDATORY for contact sports (football, basketball, boxing). Otherwise, brackets pose a high risk of lip/cheek injury or breakage. A custom-molded mouthguard from the pediatric dentist is recommended.

Are braces or clear aligners better for children?

There is no single correct answer — age, case complexity, cooperation, and family priorities determine the choice. Detail: /en/blog/braces-vs-clear-aligners-children-comparison — age-based decision matrix, advantages/disadvantages, clinical case examples in an independent comparison.