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child with braces in palos heights

What Is the Best Age for a Child to Get Braces?

September 20, 2024
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Children with braces in palos heights

Did you have braces as a child? Starting orthodontic treatment in childhood can make all the difference in having a healthier, more confident smile as an adult. As your child’s baby teeth fall out and permanent teeth begin to emerge, you might start wondering if they’ll need braces in the future. While it’s common to notice signs of potential orthodontic issues early on, the right timing for treatment is crucial for achieving the best results.

Many children show signs of needing orthodontic care at a young age, and starting treatment early can often prevent more complex issues down the road. If you’re considering braces for your child, you may be asking yourself when the ideal time is to begin the process. Typically, the best age for braces is after most of the baby teeth have fallen out and the majority of permanent teeth have come in, usually between the ages of eight and 14.

Braces for Kids in Palos Heights  

At Palos Pediatric Dentistry, we specialize in pediatric dental care, which means our Palos Heights kids’ dentist and experienced team are experts at helping children prepare for orthodontic treatment. Starting orthodontic care early is beneficial because your child’s mouth is still developing. Since their jaw is still soft and growing, it’s more receptive to treatment, making it easier to correct alignment issues.

It’s generally recommended to start orthodontic treatment before your child’s mouth and jaw finish growing. Girls tend to stop growing earlier than boys, but most children’s jaw development is complete by mid-teen years. Beginning braces at the right time can ensure a smoother, more effective treatment process.

Meet with Our Palos Heights Pediatric Dentist  

If you think your child might need braces, we recommend scheduling an orthodontic evaluation around the age of seven or eight. Our pediatric dentist can examine your child’s teeth and provide a customized treatment plan, ensuring you have a clear roadmap for their orthodontic care.

Planning early can make all the difference, and we’re here to guide you through every step. If you’re ready to discuss braces for your child, give us a call at (708) 263-6708 to schedule a consultation with our friendly team at Palos Pediatric Dentistry.

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Little Teeth, Big Smiles: Children's Expert Orthodontic Care in Palos Heights

When you think about children’s orthodontics, you might be imagining a middle or high school-aged child. You may have a younger child whom you’ve never considered taking to a children’s dentist in Palos Heights, Illinois.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children be screened by an orthodontist at age 7, for one very good reason. There are several orthodontic problems that are easier to treat in younger children, once they have all of their permanent teeth, including:

  • Underbites
  • Crossbites
  • Functional shifts
  • Crowded teeth
  • Spaced out teeth
  • Extra or missing teeth
  • Teeth issues from thumb- or pacifier-sucking

Children’s Orthodontics in Palos Heights, Illinois

At Palos Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Facko, Dr. Bauer, and the entire team are focused on providing you and your children with expert care. ...

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