Between the ages of 11 and 15 is the most common time for orthodontic treatment, and for good reasons. By 12, most, if not all, of the permanent teeth have erupted and are in place, and crooked teeth, gaps, and bad bites can easily be detected. These problems will hardly ever correct themselves, so this is when most parents decide to seek orthodontic treatment.
Over 90% of our patients at Total Orthodontics are treated with a single step of treatment, and the majority finish treatment prior to starting high school. Our doctors agree that far too many children are treated with two phases of braces–commonly in situations that are not supported by current orthodontic research.
This is also a good time for orthodontic treatment because many negative associations of braces are not present. Many children in this age range undergo orthodontic treatment and are often happy to wear braces because they see their friends wearing them as well.
Besides the benefits of fitting in with their friends, children at this age are often growing rapidly, which can help shorten overall treatment time and reduce the discomfort of orthodontic treatment.
Call our office for a FREE initial examination, and we will be able to determine the best time for the treatment and outline the treatment plan, the treatment duration expected, and the cost of the treatment.
