Is There a Specific Age for Braces?
At Washington Orthodontics, one of the most common questions we get is: “How old do you have to be to get braces?” The truth is, there’s no single “perfect” age that applies to everyone. Some kids may benefit from braces as early as age 7, while others might not need treatment until their early teens — and adults are absolutely still candidates too.
The right time for braces depends on how the teeth and jaws are developing. That’s why we focus on timing, not just age. Whether you’re a parent exploring options for your child or an adult considering a smile upgrade, this guide breaks down what to expect by age group — and how to know when it’s time to take the next step.
Braces for Kids: How Early Is Too Early?
Most people are surprised to learn that some kids can start orthodontic treatment as early as age 7. We recommend that children have their first orthodontic evaluation around this age — even if they don’t need braces right away.
Why so early? At age 7, your child still has a mix of baby and permanent teeth, but that’s actually the best time to spot potential issues with jaw growth, crowding, or bite alignment. In some cases, we may recommend Phase 1 orthodontic treatment, which gently guides the development of your child’s jaw or corrects small problems before they become bigger ones.
It’s not about putting every 7 year old in braces — it’s about identifying the right timing for each child. And if your child doesn’t need early treatment, we’ll simply keep an eye on their growth and let you know when (or if) braces will be needed down the line.
Braces for Teenagers: The Most Common Age Group
Most kids who need braces start treatment between the ages of 11 and 14. By this time, all (or most) of the permanent teeth are in, and the jaw is still developing — which makes it the ideal window for orthodontic correction.
This is also the age group where we see the most variety in treatment options. Whether it’s traditional braces or clear aligners, teens can usually choose a solution that fits their smile goals and lifestyle.
Is 12 a good age to get braces? Absolutely. It’s often the sweet spot when alignment issues are more visible and easier to correct before the jaw fully matures. And the earlier problems like crowding or bite misalignment are treated, the easier they are to manage — both now and in the future.
At Washington Orthodontics, we work closely with teens (and their parents) to find the right plan, monitor growth, and make treatment as smooth as possible.
What About Adults? Is It Ever Too Late for Braces?
Not at all. Whether you’re 25 or 55, braces can still make a major difference. In fact, more adults are choosing to straighten their teeth than ever before — and with today’s discreet options like clear aligners, it’s easier to fit orthodontic treatment into a busy lifestyle.
At Washington Orthodontics, we’ve helped many adult patients who never had the chance to get braces growing up — or whose teeth shifted over time. While treatment might take a little longer compared to teens (since adult jaws are fully developed), the results are just as impactful.
Some adults may need additional steps like periodontal care or a deep cleaning before starting braces, but these are manageable with a good dental team. Bottom line: if you’ve been wondering whether it’s too late for a straighter smile, it’s not. We’ll help you find the right solution.
When Should You Book an Orthodontic Consultation?
The best time to schedule an orthodontic checkup? Around age 7. Even if your child’s teeth look fine, an early evaluation gives us a chance to spot subtle issues with jaw growth, bite alignment, or crowding — long before they become bigger problems.
That doesn’t mean braces are guaranteed at that age. In fact, many kids we see at Washington Orthodontics don’t need treatment right away. But knowing when to start helps parents plan ahead and avoid delays that could make treatment more complex later on.
And if you’re a teen or adult thinking about braces, there’s no reason to wait. If you’re noticing crooked teeth, gaps, or bite discomfort, a consultation is a simple first step. We’ll walk you through your options and give you honest advice on what makes sense — based on your age, smile goals, and dental health.
Final Thoughts: It’s Not Just About Age, It’s About Timing
Whether you’re looking into braces for a 7-year-old, a 13-year-old, or you’re finally ready to straighten your smile as an adult — the “right” time depends more on your teeth and jaw development than on your exact age.
At Washington Orthodontics, we’ve treated patients across every stage of life. Some start early with preventive care, while others wait until all their adult teeth are in. We even see patients in their 40s, 50s, and beyond. What matters most is that you’re taking the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile.
So if you’re asking yourself, how old do you have to be to get braces? — the answer is simple: if you or your child are ready for the next step, we’re ready to help.
Not sure if it’s the right time for braces? Let’s find out together.
At Washington Orthodontics, we offer free consultations for kids, teens, and adults across Bellevue, Redmond, Renton, Issaquah, and surrounding areas. Whether you’re considering early treatment for your child or finally prioritizing your own smile, we’ll guide you through your options with clarity and care.
Book your consultation today — your future smile starts here.
