Between the ages of 11 and 15 is the most common time to begin orthodontic treatment, and for good reasons. By 12, most if not all of the permanent teeth have erupted and are in place. Crooked teeth, crowding, gaps and malocclusions (bite problems) can easily be detected and corrected. Unfortunately, these problems will not correct by themselves.
Children at this age are growing rapidly. We manipulate this period of rapid growth to our advantage in correcting the bite (malocclusion). Also, since adolescents have very fast metabolisms, overall treatment time may be shortened and discomfort may be reduced.
With so many children in this age range undergo orthodontic treatment, it makes it the most socially acceptable time wear orthodontic appliances. Some in this age group may be treated via Invisalign aligners, while most are still best treated with traditional braces. Many kids in this group cannot wait to get started with orthodontics!