What age should kids get braces?

Page updated October 14, 2026. Medically reviewed by Dr. Abraham Thomas and Dr. Jennifer Loucks-Buren.

Most children get braces between about 9 and 14, while their jaws are still growing, but the first orthodontic check should come earlier: by age 7. That visit tells you whether your child needs treatment now, later, or just monitoring. Teens are the classic age for braces, and many can choose clear aligners too.

Why the first visit is at age 7

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child be screened by an orthodontist by age 7 (AAO). At that age a child has a mix of baby and permanent teeth, and enough permanent teeth for the orthodontist to spot problems with the teeth or jaws before they get bigger (AAO). Some problems are obvious, like crowded teeth or an underbite; others aren't visible to parents, which is why orthodontists also use panoramic X-rays to look for missing, extra or impacted teeth (AAO).

You don't need a referral from your dentist, and many AAO orthodontists offer this check at no cost (AAO). If you notice something that looks off before age 7, you don't need to wait (AAO).

Signs your child may need braces

The AAO lists issues worth an orthodontic consultation, including frequent biting of the tongue or the inside of the cheek, and jaw discomfort or clicking when chewing (AAO). Other common reasons for treatment include crowding, a deep bite (overbite), an underbite or a crossbite, where the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth (AAO).

Habits matter too. Cleveland Clinic lists thumb-sucking or pacifier use past age 3, and tongue-thrusting, as causes of an overbite (Cleveland Clinic), so mention them at the first visit. For adults' signs too, see do I need braces?

Common orthodontic problems in children

Bring up anything you've noticed at the check-up, such as trouble chewing, mouth breathing or teeth that seem to come in out of place; the orthodontist will look at the teeth, the bite and how the jaws are growing (AAO).

What is the best age for braces?

Cleveland Clinic says the best time for braces is generally between ages 9 and 14, because the jaws and facial bones are still developing and more flexible (Cleveland Clinic). Healthline cites the ADA as saying children typically get braces between 8 and 14 (Healthline). You're never too old, though: adult braces are just as effective, but may take a little longer (Cleveland Clinic).

Early treatment for younger children

Some children benefit from a short first phase of treatment before all their adult teeth are in. The AAO describes two common early treatments (AAO):

• Palatal expanders widen a narrow upper jaw to reduce crowding, and in younger patients may reduce the need to remove teeth or prevent impacted teeth. Children often start at 7 or 8 (Cleveland Clinic).
• Early interceptive braces: a short time in braces to correct a problem such as an underbite early, so the teeth and jaws keep growing correctly.

Early treatment can make later treatment easier and may shorten the time needed in full braces (AAO). But not every child needs it: even if no treatment is needed at 7, the first visit lets the orthodontist monitor growth and pick the right time to start (AAO).

Braces for teens

Teens can usually choose among three main options:

• Metal braces: the most common type, durable and typically the most affordable (AAO). The colored ties can be changed at each adjustment visit (AAO); see braces colors.
• Ceramic braces: less noticeable, and may especially appeal to older teens (AAO).
• Clear aligners: removable and nearly invisible, but they only work if worn at least 22 hours a day, and they're easy to lose (AAO). Whether a teen will wear them reliably is the key question.

Compare the options on types of braces.

Braces or aligners for a teen?

Helping your child look after braces

Broken brackets mean extra visits and can make treatment take longer (AAO). The AAO advises steering clear of hard, sticky, crunchy and chewy foods, and choosing water over carbonated drinks, flavored waters and sports drinks, whose acids and sugars harm tooth enamel (AAO). Daily brushing and flossing around the brackets keeps plaque from attacking the enamel or inflaming the gums (AAO). For sore days after adjustments, see do braces hurt?

Pediatric dentist, orthodontist or both?

Most braces are placed by orthodontists, though some general dentists offer them (Cleveland Clinic). Orthodontists are dentists who have completed two to three more years of training in an accredited orthodontic residency (AAO). Regular dental visits continue during treatment (Cleveland Clinic), and cavities may need treating before braces go on (AAO).

What happens at the first appointment

The orthodontist reviews dental and medical history, examines the teeth and bite, and takes records such as X-rays and photos. If treatment is recommended, the team explains the options, the cost, payment plans and how insurance will apply (AAO).

Paying for a child's braces

• Insurance: many dental plans include some orthodontic coverage for children under 18 (AAO). Check the lifetime maximum and age limit. See dental insurance for braces.
• Medicaid and CHIP: braces are covered for under-21s on Medicaid when they're medically necessary.
• Charity programs: AAOF Gifted Smiles, Smiles Change Lives and Smile for a Lifetime treat children under 18 at low or no cost (AAO).
• Family discounts: some practices discount treatment for several family members (AAO).
• Interest-free plans: typically 12 to 24 months after a down payment (AAO).

What it costs

Metal braces typically cost $3,000 to $7,000 before insurance (CareCredit data, 2022), and early treatment can add a separate fee. Children are more likely than adults to have orthodontic insurance, and Medicaid covers braces for under-21s when they're medically necessary. For full prices, insurance and ways to pay, see braces cost for kids and teens and does Medicaid cover braces.

Questions to ask the orthodontist

• Does my child need treatment now, later, or just monitoring?
• If now, is this one phase or two, and why?
• Braces or aligners: which suits my child's teeth and habits?
• How long will treatment take, and how often are visits?