It really depends on the maturity of the horse. I have started bridling horses at 2, and have bridled most around 3 years of age. In your situation I would make sure that the teeth get taken care of, then I would start working on the bridle.
When it comes down to it, if you are a true horse person at heart, you won't stay horseless for long. It's impossible for a horse lover to live happily without horses in their life whether it be taking lessons, or owning a horse. People who give up horses and never look back and still live...