Dr. Richard Parsanko runs Sonoran Desert Dentistry in Scottsdale, Arizona. Here, he gives the lowdown on when it’s best to get braces.
What are braces?
Braces are composed of bands, brackets, and wires. Brackets are the small squares that are bonded directly to each tooth with a special dental bonding agent. They act like handles, holding the “arch wires” that move the teeth. Arch wires can be made of metal, or be clear or tooth-colored. Ties are small rubber rings or fine wires that fasten the arch wire to the brackets. They can be clear, metal, or colored. Springs may be placed on the arch wires between the brackets to push, pull, open, or close the spaces between the teeth. When needed, elastics or rubber bands attach to the brackets and are worn between the upper and lower teeth in various ways. They apply pressure to move the upper teeth against the lower teeth to achieve an optimal fit.
Orthodontic treatment is used to correct a “bad bite.” This condition, known as a malocclusion, involves teeth that are crowded or crooked. In some cases, the upper and lower jaws may not meet properly and although the teeth may appear straight, the individual may have an uneven bite. Protruding, crowded or irregularly spaced teeth and jaw problems may be inherited. Thumb sucking, losing teeth prematurely and accidents also can lead to these conditions. Correcting the problem can create a nice-looking smile. But more important, orthodontic treatment results in a healthier mouth. That’s because crooked and crowded teeth make cleaning the mouth difficult, which can lead to tooth decay, gum disease and possibly tooth loss. An improper bite can interfere with chewing and speaking, can cause abnormal wear to tooth enamel, and can lead to problems with the jaw.
What are the optimal ages for braces?
At least 60% to 70% of children today undergo an orthodontic treatment of some sort. Braces are usually put on around the time adult teeth really start to come in, or around ages 11 to 12. But everybody is different, and it depends more on a child’s physical age rather than their chronological age. Some children mature earlier than others. Girls usually mature earlier than boys, with boys catching up around ages 12 to 13, so they get their adult teeth earlier. Given that the majority of kids get braces around the same time, it’s not a stigma; it’s even somewhat of a status symbol among certain peer groups. So there is an optimal window of opportunity for braces, but not an absolute time for when you have to get them.
Even as an adult, it’s still not too late to get braces — though most adults opt for ones that are less noticeable than those of their pre-teen counterparts. For adults, I recommend Invisalign, a clear, custom-fitted retainer. Another adult option I recommend are six-month braces, which are tooth-colored and focus on the front teeth. That way, adults can be less self-conscious, don’t have to worry about speech problems, and can be at ease in a business environment.
The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.
