What is the best age for orthodontic treatment?

Written By Olivia Yue

The truth is, the perfect or ‘right’ age for orthodontic treatment does not exist. We have patients ranging from 6 years to 60 years old! At Sincerely, Orthodontics By Yue, we tailor treatment based on age and lifestyle so if you feel you are “too old” to get braces, be glad to know that it is never too late to get started! Remember, dental health leads to overall health and wellbeing!

Typically, most teenagers will start orthodontic treatment when all their permanent teeth erupt which is usually around 12 years old. However, there are times in which early treatment may be necessary. Early treatment, also known as Phase I treatment, is aimed to guide growth and dental development and prevent possible extractions or jaw surgery in the future. Phase I treatment starts between 6-10 years old, but the earlier the better. The sutures of the face do not start to fuse until 10 years old allowing orthodontists to redirect skeletal growth and development before that time.  If your child has one of the following issues, we recommend an early consultation to evaluate if Phase I treatment is needed for him/her. 

  • Severe Crowding/Misalignment

  • Thumb/finger sucking habit

  • Underbite

  • Protruding front teeth

  • Gap between upper and lower front teeth

  • Obstructive sleep Apnea

Olivia Yue
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