At What Age Can People Have Orthodontic Treatment?

Children and adults can both benefit from orthodontics, because healthy teeth can be moved at almost any age. Monitoring facial and physical growth and development is crucial to managing some orthodontic problems well, thus the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children have an orthodontic screening no later than age seven. Some orthodontic problems may be easier to correct if treated early. Waiting until all the permanent teeth have come in, or until facial growth is nearly complete, may make correction of some problems more difficult and may limit the results achieved.

Adults
Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age, and adults especially appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile. One of every four patients in our office is over 21 with age ranging up to 88 years young! Special considerations for adult treatment are sometimes necessary. With our experience in treating adults, we are able to match specific treatment needs with the latest in technology in orthodontics and the related dental specialties. Orthodontics is often an initial step prior to having restorations placed or replaced so that your final dental result is as healthy, long lasting and esthetic as possible.

Kids
At McClellan Orthodontics, we can do our best for your children if we see them by age seven as we are able to evaluate their growth and development at an age where they are exchanging their baby teeth for the permanent teeth. Only a small percentage of children need treatment at this young age, but early evaluation and monitoring can prevent developing problems. Sometimes treatment is begun early when growth guidance is necessary. Early treatment can also regulate the width of the upper and lower dental arches, gain space for permanent teeth, and thus minimize the need for later permanent tooth extractions. Early intervention can also reduce the likelihood of impacted permanent teeth, and help to correct harmful habits including thumb-sucking. In other words, in some cases early treatment can simplify or eliminate the need for later treatment.

How Orthodontic Treatment Works

Orthodontic appliances can be made of metal, ceramic or plastic. They may be removable or they may be brackets bonded to the teeth. A gentle force in a carefully controlled direction allows the braces to activate the bone cells around the teeth—guiding the teeth to a corrected position. Our practice uses the latest technology in brackets and wires to improve patient comfort and reduce treatment time. Many times the patient will have the choice of which type of appliance is used.

Duration of Treatment

Treatment time typically ranges from one to three years, depending on the growth of the patient's mouth and face and the severity of the problem. Patients grow at different rates and will respond variously to orthodontic treatment, so the time to case completion may differ from the original estimate. The patient's care of the braces and diligent use of any prescribed rubber bands or headgear is an important factor in achieving the most efficient treatment.