Orthodontic treatment can be beneficial for patients of all ages, although it is most successful during the adolescent growth spurt, between the ages of 8-14 years old. Timing orthodontic treatment is critical in order to ensure your child has a stable, healthy treatment result.
Since every patient is unique, orthodontic specialists are trained to identify the proper time to begin orthodontic treatment. Readiness to begin orthodontic treatment relies more on dental development than chronological age, so, according to the American Association of Orthodontists, it is best to seek the opinion of an orthodontic specialist no later than age 7 to determine the right time to initiate orthodontic treatment.
Orthodontic treatment isn’t just for kids anymore! According to the American Association of Orthodontists, one in every five orthodontic patients are over the age of 21. This is no doubt a reflection of heightened public awareness of how straight teeth not only look better, but are also easier to clean, thus preventing more serious gum disease and tooth decay. Recent advancements in orthodontic technology have introduced products such as clear ceramic brackets and Invisalign® to aesthetically satisfy the adult orthodontic patient.