The early teens are the most common time for orthodontic treatment. Most adult teeth have come through, the jaws are still growing, and many problems are easier to correct while growth is underway. But the right time to start is different for every child, and some benefit from being checked much earlier.
This guide helps Hornsby parents understand when to book an assessment, what signs to look for, and the options for teenagers.
When should a child first be checked?
Many orthodontic organisations suggest a first orthodontic check from around age 7 to 8. That doesn’t mean treatment starts then; most children won’t need anything until their early teens. An early check simply identifies the small number of problems that are easier to manage while the jaws are growing, such as crossbites or a lack of space for adult teeth.
Your child’s regular six-monthly check-ups are also a chance for us to monitor how the teeth and jaws are developing and let you know if a closer assessment is worthwhile.
Signs your child may benefit from orthodontics
- Crowding: teeth overlapping or coming through behind other teeth
- Gaps that remain after the adult teeth are through
- Protruding front teeth, which are also more likely to be injured in falls and sport
- Deep bite: the upper front teeth cover most of the lower ones
- Underbite: lower front teeth sit in front of the upper teeth
- Crossbite: some upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth
- Open bite: front teeth don’t meet when the back teeth are together
- Early or late loss of baby teeth, or adult teeth that haven’t come through
- Mouth breathing, thumb sucking beyond early childhood, or difficulty chewing
- Jaw shifting to one side when biting
Why the early teens often work well
- Most or all adult teeth (except wisdom teeth) are through by around 12 to 13
- The jaws are still growing, which can help correct some bite problems
- Teens are generally able to look after braces or aligners with some parental support
- Treatment is usually finished before the final years of high school
Braces or Invisalign for teens?
At Hornsby Dental we offer both traditional braces and Invisalign clear aligners. Both are effective; the best choice depends on the type of problem, your teen’s habits and personal preferences.
Fixed braces
- Brackets bonded to the teeth and connected by a wire, adjusted every few weeks
- Work all the time, without relying on the teen to wear them
- Well suited to complex movements and severe crowding
- Need extra care with cleaning and with hard or sticky foods
- Range from $4,000 to $8,000 depending on complexity
Invisalign clear aligners
- A series of removable, nearly invisible plastic trays, changed regularly
- Must be worn about 20 to 22 hours a day to work
- Removed for eating and brushing, so no food restrictions and easier cleaning
- Often preferred by teens who are self-conscious about braces
- Range from $4,200 to $8,990 depending on complexity
The biggest factor with aligners is wear time. If your teen is likely to leave them in a drawer, fixed braces may be the more reliable choice. See our orthodontics and Invisalign pages.
What happens at an orthodontic assessment
- A discussion about your concerns and your child’s dental and medical history
- An examination of the teeth, bite, jaws and facial profile
- X-rays to check the roots, unerupted teeth and jaw growth
- Photos and digital scans of the teeth
- An explanation of the options, timing, expected treatment length and costs
Sometimes the advice is simply to wait and review in six to twelve months. More complex cases, such as significant jaw discrepancies, may be referred to a specialist orthodontist.
How long does treatment take?
Most teenage treatments take between 12 and 24 months, followed by retainers. Simple alignment can be quicker; complex bite corrections can take longer.
Helping your teen through treatment
- Cleaning: braces trap food, so brushing after meals and using interdental brushes or a water flosser is important to avoid white marks and decay around the brackets.
- Food: avoid hard and sticky foods with braces, such as hard lollies, popcorn kernels, nuts and chewy toffees.
- Sport: a mouthguard is still important; we can advise on suitable options.
- Aligner wear: check in regularly about wear time; many aligners have indicators that show if they’re being worn.
- Appointments: regular reviews keep treatment on track. Saturday appointments can help avoid missing school.
Retainers: the final, essential step
After braces or aligners come off, teeth tend to drift back towards their old positions. Retainers, either a thin wire bonded behind the front teeth or removable clear retainers worn at night, hold the result. Long-term retainer wear is the best way to protect the investment.
Orthodontics FAQs
Is my child too young for braces?
Most children don’t start full braces until most adult teeth are through. An early assessment tells you whether anything needs attention sooner.
Do braces hurt?
Teeth usually feel tender for a few days after braces go on and after adjustments. Soft foods and over-the-counter pain relief help.
Will my health fund cover orthodontics?
Many extras policies include orthodontics, often with a lifetime limit and a waiting period. Check your policy and ask us for the item numbers.
Is there a free consultation?
A complimentary Invisalign consultation is available for applicable patients. Ask when you book.
Find out more about orthodontics in Hornsby.
Book a visit at Hornsby Dental
Hornsby Dental is at Suite 21, 14 Edgeworth David Avenue, Hornsby, about three minutes’ walk from Hornsby Station, with free street parking nearby. We’re open Monday to Friday 9am–6pm and Saturday 8:30am–4pm. Book online or call (02) 8090 1100.
This article is general information only. It isn’t a substitute for advice from your dentist about your own mouth and health.