First assessment at around seven
Orthodontists recommend an initial assessment at about age seven. By then the first permanent molars and incisors have usually come through, which is enough to identify developing problems — even though treatment itself may not start for years.
Early treatment is not always necessary
An early assessment does not mean early braces. In many cases the right decision is simply to monitor growth. Where it does help is with crossbites, severe crowding or habits such as thumb sucking, which are far easier to correct while the jaws are still growing.
The main treatment window
Most fixed brace treatment begins between eleven and fourteen, once the permanent teeth are through and growth is still available to work with. Treatment at this stage is typically faster and more predictable than the same case in adulthood.
It is never too late
Teeth can be moved at any age provided the gums and supporting bone are healthy. Adults now make up a substantial share of orthodontic patients, and clear aligners have made treatment far more discreet for anyone concerned about appearance at work.