The best age for braces is usually between 11 and 14 years old, but experts suggest children should have their first orthodontic assessment at 7 years old, even if they do not start with braces right away.
From 11 years old, most adult teeth have come through, but the jaw is still growing. Therefore, at this age, teeth can move more easily, so orthodontic treatment often works faster, and the results are more stable.
While braces can work at almost any age, this stage of development is often the most effective for many children.
Bass Orthodontics is a leading orthodontist in Harley Street, London. For more information, call us on 020 7580 8780.
Orthodontists use early or “interceptive” appliances to guide jaw growth, create space, or correct specific problems like a crossbite or protruding teeth. These devices can be removable or fixed, such as expanders, partial braces, or space maintainers. The aim at this stage is usually to prevent more serious issues later rather than fully straighten all the teeth.
At this stage, most permanent teeth have erupted, but the jaw is still growing, making it easier to move teeth efficiently. Typical options include metal braces, ceramic braces, and clear aligners. Treatment usually lasts 18–24 months and can address most alignment and bite issues.
Adults often have to consider gum health, missing teeth, or restorations when planning treatment. Options include metal braces, ceramic braces, invisible braces and lingual braces (placed behind the teeth).
We recommend that children have their first orthodontic assessment by the age of 7. This does not mean your child will get braces straight away. At this age, an orthodontist checks how the teeth and jaws are developing.
Early checks can be hugely important to spot problems such as severe crowding, overbite or underbite issues or jaw growth problems. In some cases, early intervention orthodontic treatment may be needed to guide jaw growth or prevent a more serious issue later on.
In which case, orthodontic treatment for children could be absolutely vital for jaw development, breathing and achieve maximum improvements in face and smile.
Children that start with corrective treatment from the age of 7 might be treated with orthopaedic braces, rather than the traditional train tracks.
Yes, teenage years are the most common time for braces. This is because most permanent teeth have appeared and the jaw is still flexible.
Tooth movement is easier – At this age, tooth movement is easier to achieve the best results for the face and smile
Shortens treatment time – When tooth movement is easier, the results are more predictable and this often shortens the overall treatment time.
Could meet NHS criteria – teenagers usually qualify for NHS orthodontic treatment if they meet the clinical criteria.
Teenagers must take responsibility – Cleaning teeth properly and wearing retainers after treatment is essential for best results. Poor oral hygiene or not following advice can affect results
Some teeth may need to be removed – A teenager may need teeth removed before braces if there is not enough space in the jaw to straighten the teeth properly.
Extractions can help reduce overcrowding, improve how the top and bottom teeth fit together, and make it easier to move teeth into the correct position without pushing them too far forward.
In some cases, removing teeth also helps protect long-term dental health by making teeth easier to clean and reducing the risk of gum disease and tooth decay. The decision is carefully planned by an orthodontist and is only recommended when it gives the best and most stable result.
For more information, visit orthodontists of teenagers.
Starting braces too early can sometimes cause problems. If many adult teeth have not yet come through, treatment may need to be repeated later. This can make the overall process longer, more frustrating and expensive.
Early treatment is only useful when there is a clear reason, such as a jaw problem, overcrowding, overbite or risk of damage to teeth. Without a valid reason, it is often better to wait until the teenage years for full treatment.
There is no upper age limit for braces. Many Britons choose orthodontic treatment for adults and may prefer to use invisible aligners instead.
Currently, around 1 in 4 orthodontic patients are now adults and teeth can be straightened successfully at almost any age.
However, treatment in adults can take longer because the jaw has stopped growing. Adults are also more likely to have gum disease, missing teeth, or dental restorations, which can complicate treatment. Braces still work, but careful planning is important.
Braces are suitable for most people looking to achieve straight teeth and a perfect smile – but they are not always the right choice for everyone.
In fact, having good oral health is essential before starting treatment and it is important to start by treating gum disease or untreated decay first.
Some patients may only need minor orthodontic adjustments, whilst others may need longer or more complex treatment.
The best age for braces is usually between 11 and 14 because the teeth will move more easily at this age. Wearing a retainer after braces will be key to maximising long-term results.
There is certainly a misconception that braces should only start for teenagers. Early assessments from the age of 7 can play a huge role in correcting jaw development, bites, breathing and reducing overcrowding.
If you have never received orthodontic treatment or braces, it is never too late to get that perfect smile. Braces for adults, especially clear aligners, are growing massively in popularity.
It is best to speak to your orthodontist to understand the best timing and treatment plan for you.
