While there is no age limit for the best time to get braces, medical research in dentistry suggests that the best time to get them is between the ages of 7 – 10. For children, getting braces as soon as possible is beneficial for several reasons. Let’s explore.
Much easier to straighten teeth.
Between our formative years and adolescence, our mouths are still developing. Because of this, our jaw and teeth structure is incredibly malleable. Once we reach 18 – 20, the bone structure within our mouths becomes rigid and set. At these ages, it becomes more challenging for dentists to correct and restructure. Finally, braces at a young age help prevent permanent damage to teeth and gums as you grow.
Correcting Facial Development
As young children and teens grow, braces play an important role in correcting one’s facial structure. And, as stated above, it ensures that no imperfections carry through into our adult life. Braces and other dental procedures work to ensure that your jaw development and teeth fall into place and promote healthy facial development.
If left unchecked for too long, adolescents and young adults may develop crooked or ill-structured jawlines. Correcting the issues at a younger age helps to ensure that facial development is symmetrical and permanent.
May correct speech impediments
Our vocal cords and the position of our tongues and lips influence our speech patterns and inflexions. If our teeth do not develop symmetrically alongside our jawlines, this may affect how we annunciate our words. For children, this is doubly true. Since, at an early age, it is far easier for us to develop correct speech patterns than in adolescence or adulthood.
With braces and corrective procedures, we can ensure that children unlearn these impractical speech patterns by aligning both the jaw and teeth correctly.
The best time to get braces
While it’s generally advisable to get your braces done between the ages of 8 – 12, we always recommend waiting until your child has all their permanent teeth.
If you’re concerned about your child’s teeth and jawline structure, please do not hesitate to schedule an appointment with us!
Contact us for an appointment
Dentistry done the right way requires modern tools, a keen understanding of how to use them, and above all else, care for your comfort and individual health requirements. We offer an extensive treatment programme far outpacing other practices in the market.
Contact us at 012 492 7094 for professional dentistry and a client-centric approach to your oral hygiene.