Do I Need Braces?

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Last updated 06/2025 Share

Contents
How to Know if You Need Braces
Signs You Need Braces
Related Articles
FAQs
References

How to Know if You Need Braces

Braces have proven to be highly effective for straightening teeth and fixing other orthodontic problems. Braces can be used to treat many different oral conditions, beyond cosmetic reasons. Depending on your specific condition, braces may be the best option for your oral health and cosmetic appearance.

Seeing an Orthodontist

If you see your dentist every six months, then your dentist will be able to determine if a full evaluation for braces is needed. Your specific condition will determine the appropriate age to correct your problem. Some problems are best treated at an early age, even before the majority of baby teeth have been replaced by permanent teeth. In fact, the average age for a first visit to the orthodontist is seven years old. ¹

However, other problems may have to be treated at a later age when all or most of the baby teeth have fallen out. It is becoming increasingly common for adults to wear braces or undergo other orthodontic treatment options. Correcting an orthodontic problem can make daily oral hygiene easier, resulting in better oral health.

Signs You Need Braces

Below is a list of orthodontic conditions that can be treated with braces:

Early, late, or irregular loss of baby teeth
Adult teeth came in late or delayed
Teeth that meet abnormally or not at all
Jaws and teeth are out of proportion to the rest of the face
Crowded, misplaced, or blocked-out teeth
Missing or extra teeth
An overbite or underbite
Jaw shifting or making sounds, which could signify a developmental issue with your teeth and jawline
Incorrect jaw position
A disorder of the jaw joint
Constantly biting the sides of your cheek or hitting the roof of your mouth
Having a difficult time chewing food
Having to breathe through your mouth on a regular basis

1. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first evaluation visit to the orthodontist no later than age 7.

Find out more about when to get braces, the different types, how much they cost and how to look after them.

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What's a good age for kids to get braces?

Most experts recommend that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age seven to identify any developing issues early. While the average age to begin treatment is often between nine and fourteen, the specific timing depends on the unique needs of your child's jaw and teeth.

Do baby teeth need to fall out before getting braces?

It is not always necessary for all baby teeth to be gone before starting treatment because some structural issues are best corrected while the jaw is still growing. Your orthodontist can determine if early intervention is required or if it is better to wait for the majority of permanent teeth to erupt.

How bad do braces hurt for kids?

While your child may experience some minor discomfort or pressure after the initial placement or subsequent adjustments, this feeling typically fades within a few days. Modern orthodontic technology is designed to be as gentle as possible while effectively moving teeth into their correct positions.

What happens if kids don't get braces?

Leaving orthodontic problems unaddressed can make daily oral hygiene more difficult and increase the risk of tooth decay or gum issues. Misaligned teeth can also lead to difficulties with chewing, irregular jaw sounds, and disproportionate facial features over time.

Is it okay to delay braces?

Delaying treatment for certain conditions might lead to more complex procedures later in life once the jaw has finished growing. Consulting with a professional early on ensures that you can choose the most effective and least invasive timeline for your child's oral health.

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