One of the most important questions people ask is – “when’s the best time for braces?” My opinion is never in a hurry to get the braces on. Your orthodontists are eager to get you a great smile – a great result and they want to get there in the quickest and most comfortable way for you. One of the best ways to make orthodontic treatment easier and more successful is good timing. Getting the braces started at the right time.

When’s the best time for braces? It depends on a few important things.

Number 1. How much crowding do you have?

If you have lots of crowding – bigger teeth, smaller jaws – orthodontists will need to make space for the teeth. That usually means starting braces before all the baby teeth are lost, but they don’t want to start too soon. Usually, the best time is near the end of losing the baby teeth. And that time usually comes with lots of notice so no surprises. It’s always the first choice to straighten your teeth without taking any teeth out for the best result and most comfort. It’s rare that any adult teeth need to come out. They can almost always make the space for all of your adult teeth. They want to plan for that.

Number 2. Is jaw growth an issue?

Some jaw growth problems are best treated later, while some are treated better at a younger age.

Number 3. Is the person early or late in the tooth and jaw growth department?

Some nine-year-old girls are ready to start their braces because they have lots of crowding and they’ve lost most or even all of their baby teeth. Some fourteen-year-olds still have baby teeth and waiting can make good sense.

Number 4. And the most important thing is the person attached to the teeth – YOU!

If you’re uncomfortable with your crooked teeth or if you’re self-conscious about your smile, it can make sense to get your braces started earlier. It’s up to you and your comfort. Timing really depends on planning for a great smile and getting there as quickly and comfortably as possible with your braces. That’s why orthodontists love to see you at a younger age so they can see what’s going on with your teeth and watch to see how things develop. It helps in planning for the best timing. Putting braces on too soon can lead to braces for longer than needed and not a better result.

So when’s the best time for braces?

It depends on you and your teeth. Orthodontists want to plan with you and your family for the timing of braces that makes the most sense for you and your situation.

Do you have any questions? Feel free to leave comments below.