Braces are a rite of passage for many of us, and kids all over continue to rely on the metal brackets and wires to help straighten their smiles. But is there a set age when kids should get braces? That answer is no—it depends on several factors, and even baby teeth can sometimes benefit from wearing them! Understanding why children may need braces early on in life can help you make informed decisions about your child’s dental and orthodontic needs. Here’s what you need to know about Phase 1 orthodontics and getting braces on baby teeth.
What Is Phase 1 Orthodontics?
To put it simply, Phase 1 orthodontics is a treatment that focuses on addressing early orthodontic issues in a young child’s mouth, including things like open bites, cross bites, improper crowding and spacing, and several others. These types of treatment typically last 12 months, however, this range can also be as short as 6 months or as long as 18 months. These orthodontic appliances can range from single orthodontic appliances to limited or full braces with the removal of select baby teeth. Appliances such as a palate expander, thumb sucking decide, or even orthodontic headgear can also be used.
Can Baby Teeth Get Braces?
Because Phase 1 orthodontics typically starts when a child is in the mixed dentition phase, or the stage when a child has both baby and adult teeth in their mouth, it might sometimes be best to put braces on some of the baby teeth. Early braces treatments are proactive and look to address significant problems early, before they become bigger issues later in life. In fact, they can often make future orthodontic issues less severe and reduce the extensiveness of future treatment.
According to the American Association of Orthodontists, a child should attend an orthodontic consultation by age 7. The best age for braces will depend on your child’s individual needs; while most won’t start braces until all of their permanent teeth have erupted, some will need to start braces earlier on due to poor bite and tooth development.
Keep in mind that not every child is a candidate for Phase 1 orthodontics. Children with poor oral hygiene, cavities, or those who cannot comply with the food restrictions associated with braces are not ideal candidates, as the treatment might even end up doing more harm than good. Your child’s orthodontist will have an open and honest discussion with you regarding your child’s readiness for Phase 1 orthodontics; just know that it has your child’s future oral health in mind!
About the Practice
Our team here at Ludlow Orthodontics has proudly served families in the Ludlow, MA, area for several years, offering a wide variety of orthodontic services for patients of all ages! If you have any questions about the blog or would like to get in touch with our team to set up an appointment for yourself or a loved one, please feel free to visit us online or call us today for additional information. Telephone: (413) 547-0300.
