Almost anyone can be a candidate for braces. Although we typically think of braces as belonging to the teen years, the reality is that anyone age 7 or older can benefit from the use of braces. If you have issues with your smile, problems in your jaw, or poorly aligned teeth, braces could be the solution. At Chesterfield Family Dental in Springfield, MO, we provide orthodontic treatments for clients of varying ages.
Age 7-12
By the time a child reaches the age of 7, his or her teeth will have developed to the point where an orthodontic assessment can be done to determine whether braces could assist in healthy oral development and prevent issues from occurring later on. Issues like tooth decay, trouble chewing (which can lead to poor nutrition), gum disease and heart problems can result from crooked teeth, so it is a good idea to find out if your child is a candidate for braces. Dr. Roger Buzbee can examine your child to determine if braces are warranted in order to keep his or her teeth straight and properly aligned as they continue to develop.
Ages 13-18
Most of the time, a person becomes a candidate for braces in the teen years. This is when underbites, overbites, crowding or difficulty chewing tend to occur, and these are all issues that can be treated by means of braces.
Of course the typical teen is also very concerned about their appearance, and it can be difficult to persuade them that straighter teeth later on are worth the embarrassment of metal braces. The good news is, most orthodontic issues will respond equally well to Invisalign clear aligners. It is important, though, to consider this type of treatment before the problems get worse and will only respond to metal braces.
19+
Any adult can also be a candidate for braces. In fact, nearly ¼ of the dental patients wearing braces are over 19. Even a senior can be a candidate for braces. Essentially, if you want a straight, healthy smile but have not been naturally blessed with one, then you are a candidate for braces at virtually any time in your life.
Contact Our Orthodontist in Springfield for Braces
If you are still not sure whether you or someone in your family is a good candidate for braces, contact us at Chesterfield Family Dental in Springfield, MO. You can arrange an appointment by phoning 417-888-0771. We will be happy to meet with you and discuss your options. To learn more about braces read our other pages: Braces Overview and Benefits of Braces.