Skip to content

Your Orthodontic Journey: Questions Uncovered

American Association of Orthodontists›FAQs

What’s the right age for orthodontic treatment?

There is not one “right” chronological age for orthodontic treatment. Ideally, children should have an orthodontic evaluation no later than the age of 7. But there is an ideal time to begin treatment for an individual who needs it. Timing is determined by the type of problem that the child has or may be developing, and the child’s stage of dental development. Some patients may require tooth movement only, while others may need help with guiding the growth of their jaws, or to correct a sucking habit or abnormal swallowing pattern that can reshape the bone. Rely on your AAO orthodontist to advise you on the ideal time for your child to be treated.

Won’t my child’s teeth straighten out as they grow?

Unfortunately, your child’s teeth will not straighten out as he or she grows. The space available for permanent front teeth will not increase as one grows. For most people, after the permanent (12 year) molars come in, there is even less space available for the front teeth which can lead to orthodontic problems such as protruding or crooked teeth.

Untreated orthodontic problems can become worse, and more difficult to treat as a child gets older. Untreated problems may lead to tooth decay, gum disease, broken front teeth and loss of bone tissue that holds teeth in place.

Where did my child’s orthodontic problems come from?

Most orthodontic problems are inherited. Some are “acquired,” developing over time by sucking the thumb or fingers, mouth breathing, dental disease, abnormal swallowing, poor dental hygiene, or early or late loss of baby teeth, accidents and poor nutrition. Whatever the cause, orthodontists are usually able to treat most conditions successfully.

How will orthodontic treatment help my child?

Orthodontic treatment will help your child bite and chew, and contribute to clear speech. When teeth function properly, they tend to look nice. An attractive smile is a pleasant side effect of orthodontic treatment, and can have emotional benefits. Self-confidence and self-esteem may improve as orthodontic treatment brings teeth, lips and face into proportion. Straight teeth are less prone to decay, gum disease and injury.

Will my braces attract attention from fish?

Scuba aficionados take heart: there is no need to cancel your next dive. The small brackets used in today’s braces, especially ceramic or tooth-colored brackets, will not attract attention from unsavory fish or sea life.

Will braces increase my chance of being struck by lightning?

With or without braces the chances of a lightning strike remain the same which, in the U.S. in any one year, according to nationalgeorgraphic.com, is one in 700,000.

Will my braces interfere with radio signals or electronic devices?

No. Radio-loving gadget fanatics can rest easy.

Can braces rust?

Today’s braces are made of new stronger materials, like titanium alloy, and will not rust

If two people with braces kiss, can their braces become locked together?

With today’s smaller sleeker braces it is almost impossible to lock braces while kissing. Also, braces are not magnetic, which means any “attraction” felt is on the part of the wearers, so pucker up!

We have a special event coming up – can braces be removed?

Discuss this with your orthodontist. But be aware that premature removal of braces may not be in your best interests for a stable, functional result from orthodontic treatment.