Are Teenagers Candidates for Invisalign®?
As a parent, you want the best for your child—including a healthy, confident smile. One common question we hear is, “When should my child get metal braces?” The answer depends on your child’s individual needs and dental development. Some children benefit from early intervention, while others may not require braces until their teen years. Our orthodontists in Fort Wayne, IN, and surrounding areas provide personalized evaluations to help you determine the right time for treatment and the best orthodontic solution for your child.
Understanding Early Orthodontic Evaluation
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their by age 7. At this age, most kids have a mix of baby and permanent teeth, which makes it easier for our orthodontists to identify early problems with jaw growth, crowding, or bite alignment.
In some cases, early treatment—also called —may be recommended to correct developing issues and guide the proper growth of the jaw and permanent teeth. This can reduce the need for more extensive treatment later or even shorten the time your child spends in braces as a teen.
However, not every child needs early orthodontic intervention. Many children are simply monitored over time and begin treatment during their teenage years, when most or all of their permanent teeth have come in.
When Are Metal Braces Recommended?
Metal braces are one of the most effective tools for correcting a wide range of orthodontic concerns, including crowded teeth, overbites, underbites, and spacing issues. Your child’s orthodontist may recommend braces once enough adult teeth have erupted and their jaw is developed enough to support tooth movement.
For most children, this happens between ages 11 and 14. At this stage, their teeth and jaws are still growing, which allows for more efficient treatment and often faster results compared to waiting until adulthood.
Braces Aren’t the Only Option
While metal braces remain a reliable and time-tested option, they’re not the only choice available. Our orthodontists in Fort Wayne, IN, and surrounding areas also offer clear ceramic braces and Invisalign® aligners for teenage patients who prefer a more discreet look. Ceramic braces function just like traditional ones but are less noticeable, while Invisalign uses removable, clear aligners that fit comfortably over the teeth.
During your child’s consultation, we’ll help you explore all available options and determine which one suits their needs, lifestyle, and preferences.
Monitoring Your Child’s Smile Over Time
Even if your child isn’t ready for dental braces yet, it’s still important to schedule regular orthodontic evaluations. Monitoring their dental development helps us identify potential problems early and plan for the ideal time to start treatment. Early planning leads to better results and more efficient treatment overall.
Schedule Your Child’s Orthodontic Consultation
If you’re wondering when to start your child’s orthodontic journey, we’re here to help. Our , and surrounding areas offer comprehensive evaluations and customized treatment plans for every age and stage. Contact us today to schedule your child’s first consultation and take the first step toward a lifetime of healthy, confident smiles. Call Parrish Orthodontics at (260) 447-2568 or request an appointment online.