What Is the Best Age for Braces for Kids?

If you’re a parent wondering when your child might need braces, you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common questions parents ask when visiting an orthodontist — What is the right age for braces? The answer depends on your child’s growth, dental development, and specific orthodontic needs.

Starting treatment at the right time can help guide your child’s smile in the healthiest direction possible. In this blog, we’ll break down the best age for braces, signs your child might need them, and how early orthodontic care can make a big difference — both in treatment results and overall experience.

Why Braces Are So Common for Kids

Many kids need braces for reasons that go beyond appearance. Misaligned teeth, bite issues, or overcrowding can all cause problems with speech, chewing, or long-term oral health.

Common reasons kids may need braces include:

• Crooked or crowded teeth
• Gaps between teeth
• Overbite, underbite, or crossbite
• Early loss of baby teeth
• Difficulty chewing or biting
• Jaw misalignment

The earlier these issues are caught, the easier they often are to correct — especially while the jaw and facial bones are still developing.

When Should My Child See an Orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7.

That doesn’t mean your child will get braces at age 7 — but this early checkup helps orthodontists spot developmental issues early. Some children may not need treatment at all. Others might benefit from early intervention to prevent more complex problems later.

At age 7, orthodontists can evaluate:

• Jaw growth and alignment
• Crowding or spacing issues
• Presence and eruption of adult teeth
• Habits like thumb-sucking that could impact development
• Risk of future complications

In many cases, this visit provides peace of mind. And when treatment is needed, early planning helps everything run more smoothly.

What Is Phase One (Early) Orthodontic Treatment?

If your child shows signs of orthodontic issues at a young age, the orthodontist might recommend something called Phase One Treatment. This usually takes place between the ages of 7 and 10 and is designed to correct jaw and bite problems while the mouth is still growing.

Examples of Phase One treatment include:

• Palatal expanders
• Partial braces
• Retainers or space maintainers
• Habit-breaking appliances

The goal of Phase One treatment is to create a healthier foundation for the adult teeth to grow in — often reducing the amount of time (or even the need) for full braces later on.

So, What’s the Best Age for Braces?

While every child is different, the most common age for full braces is between 11 and 14 years old.

Here’s why this window is ideal:

• Most or all permanent teeth have erupted
• The jaw is still growing, making tooth movement more efficient
• Kids are mature enough to care for their braces
• It’s early enough to address issues before they affect confidence or function

Braces during this age range can correct alignment, bite problems, and spacing all at once — with less time and complexity than if you wait until adulthood.

How Long Do Kids Usually Wear Braces?

Most kids wear braces for about 18 to 24 months, but this can vary depending on their unique needs and how well they follow care instructions.

Factors that influence treatment time:

• Severity of the orthodontic issues
• Type of braces used (metal, clear, etc.)
• Growth patterns
• Oral hygiene and compliance with instructions

Good habits like keeping up with appointments and avoiding foods that damage braces can help keep treatment on track.

Are There Different Braces Options for Kids?

Yes — and the best option depends on your child’s specific case and what’s available at your local orthodontic office.

If you’re in Longview, TX, options typically include:

• Contemporary Metal Braces — Durable and effective for all ages. These are the most popular choice for kids due to their strength and lower cost.
• ICONIX Braces — A more aesthetic option featuring champagne-colored brackets that blend with the teeth for a lower-profile look.

Both options are great for kids, with comfort and performance in mind. Your orthodontist will help you decide which is the best fit based on your child’s treatment plan and preferences.

Is It Ever Too Late for Braces?

Not at all! While early treatment is ideal, orthodontic care can be successful at almost any age. Many adults choose to get braces later in life — but the process is often faster and easier when started in childhood or adolescence.

How to Know If Your Child Is Ready

Still not sure if your child needs braces — or when to start? Here are some signs it may be time to visit an orthodontist:

• Baby teeth falling out too early or too late
• Difficulty chewing or biting
• Crowded or misplaced teeth
• Mouth breathing
• Teeth that don't come together when biting
• Thumb-sucking beyond age 5
• Jaw shifts or clicking sounds

Even if none of these signs are present, it’s still a good idea to have that first checkup around age 7 — just to be safe.

Give Your Child a Head Start on a Healthy Smile

Braces are about more than straight teeth — they’re about building confidence, function, and long-term oral health. Knowing when to begin makes all the difference, and the best place to start is with a trusted orthodontic evaluation.

Schedule a Free Consultation with Sherman & Briscoe Orthodontics

At Sherman & Briscoe Orthodontics in Longview, we specialize in guiding young smiles through every stage of development. Whether your child needs early treatment or full braces, we’re here to help with personalized care, flexible payment options, and a welcoming team that puts families first.

Book your free consultation today and give your child the best start toward a confident, healthy smile.