By Dr. Anagha Kanade Deshpande, MDS Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopaedics, Orion Dental Specialities, Kothrud, Pune.
If you have noticed your child’s teeth looking crowded or crooked, you may be wondering when is the right time to act. The good news is that catching things early gives you the best options. In this guide I cover the right age for a first orthodontic check, the signs a child may need braces, the types available, and what treatment costs in Pune in 2026.
I am Dr. Anagha Kanade Deshpande, MDS in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopaedics, practising at Orion Dental Specialities in Kothrud.
What Is the Best Age for a Child to See an Orthodontist?
A first orthodontic check is usually suggested by about age 7, even though braces themselves often start later, around 10 to 14, once most of the adult teeth are through. An early visit is not about starting braces straight away. It is about spotting jaw and bite issues while your child is still growing, when they are easiest to guide.
Signs Your Child May Need Braces
A few common signs are worth watching for.
- Crowded, crooked, or overlapping teeth.
- Noticeable gaps, or teeth that stick out.
- Difficulty chewing, or teeth that do not meet properly when biting.
- Thumb sucking that continues past the early years, or mouth breathing.
- Baby teeth lost very early or very late, or a jaw that shifts to one side.
Early Treatment vs Regular Braces
Some children benefit from early, guiding treatment while they are growing, for example to make room or to correct a crossbite. Many others simply need one round of braces in the early teens once the adult teeth are in. Not every child needs early treatment, and a check up is the best way to decide.
Types of Braces and Appliances for Children
There are a few options, chosen to suit your child.
- Metal braces. The most common choice for children, reliable and often fun because of the coloured elastic bands.
- Ceramic braces. Tooth coloured and more discreet, usually for older children who prefer a subtle look.
- Early appliances. Devices such as an expander that gently guide jaw growth or hold space, used in the early phase when needed.
- Clear aligners. A near invisible, removable option that can suit some responsible teenagers.
How Much Do Kids’ Braces Cost in Pune?
The cost depends on what your child needs and whether early treatment is involved.
Note: These are representative 2026 Pune ranges for guidance only. They are not Orion’s fixed fees. An examination gives a clear plan and cost.
| Option | Representative 2026 Pune Range | Notes |
| Early appliance (e.g. expander) | 15,000 to 25,000 | Guides jaw growth, early phase |
| Metal braces | 25,000 to 50,000 | Most common for children |
| Ceramic braces | 40,000 to 70,000 | Tooth coloured, older children |
| Clear aligners (teens) | from 1,50,000 | For suitable older children |
Is Treatment Comfortable for Children?
Fitting braces is virtually pain free. Any mild soreness or pressure for a day or two after fitting or an adjustment settles with soft foods and simple at-home pain relief, which our doctors at Orion Dental discuss with parents during the braces fitting appointment.
How Parents Can Help
- Help your child brush well around the braces, and supervise younger children.
- Avoid very hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can damage the braces.
- Keep to the review appointments so treatment stays on track.
- Encourage your child, especially in the early weeks while they adjust.
Payment Options
At Orion Dental Specialities we offer direct clinic instalment plans. Talk to us during your consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best age for a child to get braces?
Most orthodontists suggest a first check by about age 7, even though braces often start later, around 10 to 14, once most adult teeth are through. An early visit lets us spot jaw or bite issues while your child is still growing. Every child is different.
Q: How do I know if my child needs braces?
Common signs include crowded or crooked teeth, gaps, difficulty chewing, thumb sucking, mouth breathing, or teeth that do not meet properly. Baby teeth lost very early or very late can also be a clue. A simple check tells you whether treatment is needed.
Q: What types of braces are best for children?
Metal braces are the most common and children often enjoy choosing coloured bands. Ceramic braces suit older children who prefer a discreet look, and clear aligners can work for suitable teens and older children who would rather not have fixed braces. Some younger children need an early appliance first. We recommend what fits your child.
Q: How much do braces cost for kids in Pune?
As a guide, metal braces range from 25,000 to 50,000 and early appliances from 15,000 to 25,000, with the total depending on your child’s needs. These are city wide ranges, not fixed fees. An examination gives a clear plan and cost.
Q: Do braces hurt children?
Fitting braces is virtually pain free. Your child may feel mild soreness or pressure for a day or two after fitting or an adjustment, which settles with soft foods and simple pain relief. We make each visit as comfortable as possible.
Conclusion
To sum up: an early check by about age 7 gives the best options, several signs can flag that a child may need braces, and there are child friendly choices to suit different ages. If you have noticed anything, book a check for your child at Orion Dental Specialities in Kothrud and we will guide you on the right time to act.
Medical disclaimer: All price ranges on this page are representative 2026 Pune figures based on market observation and are for guidance only. They are not Orion Dental Specialities’ fixed fees. Treatment recommendations depend on an individual clinical assessment. Please book a consultation for advice specific to your child.
About the author: Dr. Anagha Kanade Deshpande holds an MDS in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopaedics and is an Invisalign certified provider, practising at Orion Dental Specialities in Kothrud, Pune.
