Ask Drs. Fey & Grey: “When should my child visit for an orthodontic consultation?”

April 16th, 2012

Great question! Braces were originally considered to be best appropriate for teens. But these days, kids as old as seven are beginning their orthodontic treatment. Because preadolescent kids are typically not self-conscious, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists suggest it could be a good idea to start early.

Experts, however, say it depends on the treatment required. Some children who get braces at an early age end up in a second phase of treatment, and end up having braces well into their teenage years despite starting young.

Most orthodontic treatment begins between ages nine and 14, and the folks at AAO estimate most orthodontic treatment lasts from one to three years, with two years being the average. It’s important, however, that children be screened no later than age seven for Drs. Fey and Grey to assess what the best age for treatment is.

We hope this helps! Please give us a call at our Bothell office if you have any questions about your child’s treatment!

Posted in: braces, oral hygiene, orthodontics