When Should My Child Get Braces?

The ideal age for a child to get braces (if treatment is indicated) varies depending on the child’s orthodontic problem and unique development. Children can get braces from as young as eight years old. The average age, however, is around eleven or twelve.

The Australian Society of Orthodontists recommends an early evaluation with your orthodontist in order to ‘screen’ for developing problems. If a child has misplaced, protruding or crowded teeth, he or she could benefit from orthodontic treatment. Children with habits such as thumb-sucking or mouth-breathing may also benefit from an early assessment. But, there are a few less obvious signs that may indicate they need treatment from a specialist orthodontist. An early check-up can help identify any problems and give you the chance to correct adverse growth and development patterns.

When Can a Child Start Orthodontic Treatment?

Overall, the earlier a child visits the orthodontist, the sooner orthodontic problems can be detected and the easier they will be to deal with. Interceptive treatment may be indicated as early as age seven. This may include fitting an expander or removable plate on some of the front teeth to improve any developing issues. Most children will start their orthodontic treatment at the end of childhood and the start of their teenage years.

Many adults start orthodontic treatment well past the age of eleven. So, if you or your child has not seen an orthodontist yet – it’s not too late! Whilst some issues are most easily dealt with at a younger age, it is also true that orthodontic treatment (if indicated) can be beneficial at any age.

If you think your child would benefit from an orthodontic consultation, book a Free* Assessment with Fine Orthodontist Sydney in two locations in Sydneys east; Bondi and Maroubra.

As treatment started at the right time is faster and easier for everyone, we offer ongoing growth and development checkups at no charge. That way, we’ll be able to make a plan for starting treatment (if needed) at the perfect time for your child.

*If orthodontic X-rays are required, a fee of $180 applies.

Note: Treatment may not be suitable for you or your child. Remember that orthodontics is rarely (if ever) necessary, but can be considered an optional luxury for those wishing to optimise function and aesthetics.

Learn more about Orthodontics:

More about the benefits of orthodontics for children.
View orthodontic before and after photos
Discover orthodontic appliances available at Fine Orthodontist Sydney.
Seeking the best orthodontists in Sydney? Read our guide on how to choose the best orthodontist for your family.

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Written by Danielle Long, Writer

Danielle Long

Danielle Long is a writer at Fine Orthodontist Sydney. She holds graduate qualifications in English and Education and is an integral part of the team at Fine Orthodontist Sydney. Danielle Long has been assisting in the orthodontic care process at Fine Orthodontist Sydney for over fifteen years, working closely with the team to provide exceptional patient support, communication and coordination of treatment plans. As a writer and an orthodontic treatment coordinator, Danielle Long’s primary responsibilities include facilitating exceptional patient education and communication, ensuring seamless coordination of treatment plans, and providing support to the clinical orthodontic team at Fine Orthodontist Sydney.

Specialist Orthodontist Input by Dr Martin Fine BDS, MSc (Orthodontics)

Dr Martin Fine

Specialist Orthodontist Dr Martin Fine, BDS, MSc (Orthodontics), is based in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs. With over 30 years’ experience in private practice, Dr Fine has expertise working with a wide variety of orthodontic appliances, including braces and Invisalign®. He has presented at orthodontic conferences globally, and has taught postgraduate orthodontic students at the University of Sydney. Dr Fine is a member of both the AAO (American Association of Orthodontists) and the ASO (Australian Society of Orthodontists), and is a former president of the Alpha-Omega Dental Society’s Sydney Chapter.

In the past, Dr Fine’s research has been featured in the Angle Orthodontist journal. Dr Fine is committed to providing outstanding patient care using the latest and most effective techniques.

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