Orthodontic Care for Kids and Adults: When to Begin

Orthodontic care is often associated with teenagers and braces, but in reality, it can benefit both children and adults. The right time to begin orthodontic treatment isn’t determined by age alone — it depends on diagnosis, growth patterns, and long-term oral health goals.

Understanding when to start orthodontic care helps ensure treatment is appropriate, effective, and stable over time.

Early orthodontic evaluation plays an important role in understanding how a child’s teeth and jaws are developing. This is why children are encouraged to see an orthodontist at an early age — not necessarily to begin treatment, but to identify potential concerns and monitor growth.

In fact, according to the American Association of Orthodontists, an early orthodontic evaluation does not always mean immediate treatment. Many children are simply monitored over time until the right moment for intervention.

During early evaluations, orthodontists may:

In certain situations, early interceptive orthodontic care can help guide jaw growth, correct developing bite problems, and reduce the complexity of future treatment. This may involve treatment methods such as palatal expanders, limited braces, or other growth-guiding appliances used at the appropriate stage of development. In other cases, observation alone is the most appropriate approach. The goal is thoughtful timing, and not rushing into treatment.

Orthodontic treatment is not limited to children and teenagers. Adults can benefit from orthodontic care at almost any age, provided the teeth and supporting structures are healthy.

Adults often seek orthodontic treatment to address:

Today’s orthodontic options also allow for more discreet treatment. Clear aligner systems such as Invisalign and Eon offer effective solutions for many adult patients, while metal, ceramic, or Damon braces remain essential for certain types of tooth movement and bite correction. The choice of appliance is always guided by diagnosis and clinical needs — not appearance alone.

The right time to begin orthodontic care is when a thorough assessment shows that treatment will improve function, health, or long-term stability — not simply when teeth appear misaligned.

Orthodontic planning considers:

A personalized evaluation helps determine whether treatment should begin now, be planned for a later stage, or simply be monitored over time.

Orthodontic care is not about speed or trends. It’s about achieving a healthy, functional bite that remains stable for years to come.

Whether it’s early guidance for a growing child or carefully planned treatment for an adult, the most successful outcomes come from accurate diagnosis, appropriate timing, and individualized care — using the right orthodontic tools for the right reasons.