How Old Is Too Old For Braces?

Until What Age Can Braces Be Worn?

Braces can be worn at any age, as long as the teeth and gums are healthy.

Orthodontic treatment (braces) can begin as early as age 5-6 and continue into adulthood, depending on the nature of the dental crowding. In general, the most suitable age for orthodontic treatment for dental issues alone is between 11-13 years old, while for skeletal and dental problems, it is recommended to start between ages 7-8. Therefore, children who have just started school should be examined by a pediatric dentist at age 7 to assess for malocclusion (crowding).

After the ages of 11-13, correcting orthodontic issues may become more difficult, and in some cases, it may not be possible. This is because:

1. By ages 11-13, all teeth have erupted or are about to complete eruption, making the surrounding bone (alveolar bone) highly active.
2. These ages are when children transition from childhood to adolescence, becoming more aware of their problems, understanding what is expected of them, and better able to cooperate with the orthodontist.
3. The puberty growth spurt is near. Puberty typically occurs between ages 11-13 in girls and 13-15 in boys in Turkish society. During this period, due to rapid hormonal and cellular activity in the body, both teeth and jaw movements are accelerated.