Phase 1 Orthodontics in Miramar: Why Age 7 Matters for Your Child
Your child's first orthodontist visit isn't about rushing them into braces.
It's about giving them the best foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles—and that conversation often starts around age 7, according to the American Association of Orthodontists.
If you're a parent in Miramar, Pembroke Pines, or anywhere across Broward County, you've probably wondered: "Does my 7-year-old really need to see an orthodontist?"
The answer might surprise you.
It's not always about what you see right now.
It's about what an experienced orthodontist can predict down the road.
Why Age 7? The Science Without the Confusing Jargon
By age 7, your child has a mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth coming in.
This is the golden window for orthodontists to spot patterns early.
We're talking about things like crowding, crossbites, or jaw growth patterns that could become much bigger problems later.
Think about it this way: catching a small growth concern at 7 means your child might need Phase 1 interceptive treatment (often just 6 to 12 months of gentle guidance).
Compare that to needing comprehensive braces for 2 or more years at age 12.
Same end result.
Way better journey.
Less time, less stress, less money out of your pocket.
This isn't fear-mongering.
This is smart parenting.
What Phase 1 Orthodontics Actually Does for Growing Kids
Phase 1 treatment (also called interceptive orthodontics) gently guides jaw growth and creates space for permanent teeth to come in properly.
Here are the common goals we're working toward:
- Correcting crossbites before they affect how your child's jaw develops
- Addressing mouth breathing habits that impact growth patterns
- Creating room for crowded permanent teeth as they erupt
- Building confidence early so kids feel heard and cared for
Most Phase 1 patients wear simple appliances.
Sometimes just for part of the day.
For a short period of time.
Then we pause and watch.
Nature does the heavy lifting while permanent teeth come in.
Your child's body does most of the work.
Real Signs Your Child Might Need Phase 1 Care in Broward
Does your child have any of these?
- Upper and lower teeth that don't close together properly (crossbite or underbite)
- Significant crowding, even with baby teeth
- Mouth breathing instead of nasal breathing
- Thumb sucking past age 5
- Jaw clicking or asymmetry (one side looks different than the other)
- Speech or eating difficulties
- Persistent finger thrusting or tongue thrusting
None of these are emergencies.
But they're definitely worth a conversation with an orthodontist who specializes in kids.
You might be thinking: "What if I just wait and see?"
Sometimes that works out fine.
Sometimes waiting means you miss the window when early intervention would have made the biggest difference.
That's exactly why an initial consultation matters so much.
What Your Child's First Orthodontist Visit Actually Looks Like
We know kids get nervous about new experiences.
That's why we've built our Miramar practice around making young patients feel safe, heard, and honestly excited about their visit.
When you arrive, we greet your child by name.
No clinical coldness.
We have a welcoming waiting area with activities, and if your child needs it, we offer weighted blankets, noise-canceling headphones, or a chance to watch their favorite show while we get them comfortable.
Some kids love the distraction.
Others don't need it.
We follow your child's lead.
In the exam room, our board-certified orthodontists take time to explain what we're looking at in kid-friendly language.
We use low-dose digital X-rays (up to 90% less radiation than traditional imaging), and for some cases, we use CBCT (3D imaging) only when it truly adds value.
No unnecessary radiation.
No unnecessary tests.
We explain why we're taking images and what they show.
The actual exam checks bite, tooth position, jaw growth patterns, and overall development.
It usually takes 20 to 30 minutes.
Your child stays in control the entire time.
We ask permission before we touch anything, we explain every step, and we pause if they need a break.
After the exam, we sit down with you (and your child, if age-appropriate) and explain what we found.
No pressure.
No sales pitch.
Just honest guidance: "Your child's development looks great and doesn't need anything right now," or "We can see a pattern that would benefit from Phase 1 care over the next year," or "Let's monitor this and check back in 6 months."
Why SMILE-FX Is Different for Kids in Broward County
You might see ads from general dentists offering "braces for kids."
You'll see franchise practices promising fast, cheap treatment.
Here's what sets SMILE-FX apart:
Board-certified specialists, not general dentists: Every orthodontist at SMILE-FX completed 2 to 3 years of specialized training beyond dental school.
We've chosen to focus only on orthodontics.
That expertise matters, especially with kids whose jaws are still growing.
We're the number one trusted partner for pediatric dentists in South Florida.
The pediatric dentists in your community refer their toughest cases and most valued young patients to us.
That's because they've seen our results and trust how we treat kids.
Technology built for comfort: From low-dose imaging to gentler bracket systems designed for young teeth, we use cutting-edge technology that prioritizes what kids actually need.
Faster treatment.
Less discomfort.
Better outcomes.
Time built for real life: Your child has school, sports, friends, and activities.
We schedule around that.
Flexible hours, quick appointments, and realistic treatment plans that don't disrupt childhood.
Does Your Child Actually Need Braces or Phase 1 Care?
Honest answer?
Many kids don't.
Some children develop perfectly fine with no intervention.
Some have minor cosmetic crowding that resolves naturally.
Some have patterns that genuinely benefit from early guidance.
The only way to know is a proper evaluation.
Not a cleaning-room screening.
Not a rushed assessment.
A real exam by someone trained to see what's coming next.
That's why we offer a free consultation with no charge and no obligation.
Just answers about your child's specific situation.
Why Families From Miramar and Broward Choose SMILE-FX
Our Miramar location is centrally situated for families across Broward County.
Whether you're commuting from Weston, Hollywood, Cooper City, Davie, or Fort Lauderdale, we're accessible.
But it's not just about location.
Families choose us because:
- We explain why, not just what. Parents feel informed, not pressured.
- We respect childhood. Treatment timelines are realistic. Appointments fit your schedule.
- We specialize in kids and teens. This isn't a side service. It's our focus.
- We use the latest techniques and technology, so your child gets the fastest, most comfortable path forward.
- Our team genuinely loves working with young patients. You'll see it the moment you walk in.
You can check out why SMILE-FX stands out from other practices, or learn more about our board-certified specialists and their qualifications.
Common Questions Parents Ask About Phase 1 Orthodontics
If we do Phase 1 treatment now, will my child still need braces later?
Sometimes yes, sometimes no.
Phase 1 addresses specific growth patterns.
Many kids transition directly to regular life without more treatment.
Others benefit from Phase 2 (comprehensive treatment) in their early teens.
It depends on the case.
We'll map that out during your consultation.
How long does Phase 1 treatment usually take?
Typically 6 to 18 months, depending on what we're correcting.
Most cases are on the shorter end.
Then we pause and monitor while permanent teeth come in.
Will Phase 1 treatment hurt?
Not in the way you might worry.
There's no sharp pain.
Some kids feel pressure or mild soreness for a day or two after appointments.
Similar to the feeling after a dental cleaning.
We use the gentlest forces possible and explain what to expect ahead of time.
How often will we need appointments?
Usually every 4 to 6 weeks during active Phase 1 treatment.
Quick visits, 15 to 20 minutes typically.
Then follow-up checks during the monitoring phase happen every few months.
The Real Value of Early Orthodontic Care
This isn't about vanity or cosmetics.
It's about giving your child the best biological foundation for a healthy, confident smile.
Kids who get proper guidance early often experience:
- Shorter, less complex treatment as teens or adults
- Better jaw development and function
- Improved breathing and posture in some cases
- Earlier confidence boost when they see progress
- Lower overall cost (preventing bigger problems saves money long-term)
Most importantly, your child learns that their smile matters.
Professional care is normal.
You're invested in their health and future.
We offer multiple treatment options including clear aligners, Invisalign, and traditional braces for different ages and preferences.
Ready to Get Answers About Your Child's Smile?
Book a free 3D scan and VIP smile consultation with our Miramar team.
We'll do a thorough evaluation, answer every question you have, and give you honest guidance.
Whether that's "Let's start Phase 1 care," "Let's monitor and check back," or "Your child's development looks great right now."
No pressure.
Just expertise and care.
Schedule your free 3D scan and VIP smile consultation here, or book a virtual consult if that's easier for your family.
SMILE-FX Orthodontics and Clear Aligner Studio serves Miramar, FL and all of Broward County and South Florida with Phase 1 orthodontics for kids and comprehensive treatment for teens and adults.
Phase 2 Orthodontics and Teen Treatment: The Complete Guide to Braces and Clear Aligners for Adolescents in Broward County
Your teenager just hit their growth spurt and suddenly their bite looks different than it did a year ago.
Maybe they're self-conscious about their smile at school.
Maybe they're asking when they can finally get their teeth fixed.
Or maybe your orthodontist mentioned that now's the time to move forward with comprehensive treatment.
If you're wondering what comes next, you're not alone.
Plenty of parents get confused about Phase 2 orthodontics, whether their teen should get braces or clear aligners, and what the whole timeline actually looks like.
Let me break it down straight.
What Happens After Phase 1: Why Phase 2 Treatment Matters for Teens
Phase 2 is where the real alignment work happens.
If your kid went through Phase 1 as a younger child, their jaw had time to grow and permanent teeth came in with better spacing.
Now all the permanent teeth are mostly here, and it's time to fine-tune everything into the right positions.
If your teenager never had Phase 1, that's fine too.
Some kids don't need early intervention.
Their jaws developed naturally with good spacing.
They're just now ready for treatment because all their adult teeth are in.
Phase 2 typically starts around age 12 and can happen any time through the late teens.
This is when we're working with a full set of adult teeth and a jaw that's almost done growing.
The goal is straightforward: perfect bite, straight teeth, and a smile your kid feels proud to show off.
Braces vs. Clear Aligners: Which One Makes Sense for Your Teen
This is the question I hear most often from parents.
And honestly, there's no one right answer.
It depends on your teen's lifestyle, the type of bite issues we're correcting, and what your family prefers.
Let me walk you through both options.
Traditional braces are still the gold standard for complex cases.
They work consistently whether your teen remembers to wear them or not (because they're bonded to the teeth).
Modern braces are smaller, lighter, and way more comfortable than they were ten years ago.
Teenagers can pick bracket colors and have fun with it.
Some kids actually like the look.
Check out our full guide on braces for teens and adults to see exactly what to expect.
Clear aligners and Invisalign are the invisible option.
Your teen wears custom trays that gradually shift teeth into position.
They take them out to eat, drink, and brush.
They look basically invisible in photos and on video calls.
A lot of teenagers prefer this because it doesn't feel like they're "in braces."
The tradeoff is discipline.
If your teen doesn't wear the aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day, treatment stalls.
Some kids crush it.
Others struggle with the responsibility.
You know your teenager best.
Learn more about clear aligners and Invisalign treatment options to see which fits their personality.
How Long Does Phase 2 Treatment Actually Take
Most comprehensive Phase 2 cases run between 18 and 30 months.
Some finish faster, some take a bit longer.
It depends on how much movement we need to do and how your teen's teeth respond.
The cool part is that teeth are moving the whole time.
Your teenager will start seeing results in the first few months.
That's huge for motivation.
They can see their smile getting straighter right in front of them.
Appointments happen every 4 to 8 weeks, depending on which treatment type we're using.
Braces need adjustments to keep the pressure on.
Clear aligners need progress checks and new tray sets as we move through the treatment.
Either way, appointments are quick and don't mess with school or sports schedules.
What Types of Bite Problems Do We Fix in Phase 2
Phase 2 handles everything from simple crowding to complex skeletal issues.
Here's what falls into this category:
Crowding: Teeth are overlapping or twisted because there's not enough room.
Phase 2 treatment creates space by aligning teeth in a way that maximizes the jaw.
Spacing: Teeth have gaps between them.
We close those gaps and create the right amount of contact between teeth.
Overbite: Upper front teeth stick out too far over the lower ones.
We pull the upper teeth back or adjust the relationship between upper and lower teeth.
Underbite: Lower teeth are in front of upper teeth when biting down.
This is more complex and sometimes needs special rubber bands or appliances to guide jaw growth.
Crossbite: Upper and lower teeth don't line up side to side.
Phase 2 corrects this so the bite is centered and balanced.
Open bite: Front teeth don't touch when the mouth is closed.
This is rare in Phase 2 teens but happens occasionally.
Check out our treatable cases page to see the full scope of what we address.
The Cost Reality: What Phase 2 Treatment Actually Costs
Let me be real with you.
Orthodontics isn't cheap, but it's an investment that pays back for life.
Your kid is going to have their teeth for the next 60 to 80 years.
Getting them right now beats fixing problems later.
Phase 2 braces typically run between $3,500 and $7,000 depending on complexity.
Clear aligners run in a similar range, sometimes a bit higher because of the custom trays involved.
But here's what matters:
Most orthodontists, including us, offer flexible payment plans.
You're not paying it all upfront.
We spread payments across the treatment period so it fits your family budget.
Insurance often covers 50% of orthodontics if your plan includes it.
Check your policy.
A lot of families are surprised to find they have coverage.
We handle the insurance paperwork on our end, so you don't have to chase it yourself.
What Your Teen Will Experience During Phase 2 Treatment
First appointment is the consultation.
We do a full exam, take digital images and X-rays, and explain exactly what we're seeing and what the treatment plan looks like.
No surprises later.
Your teen gets to ask questions and understand what they're signing up for.
If you choose braces, we bond the brackets on at the first appointment.
It doesn't hurt, but it takes about an hour.
Your teen might feel pressure and hear the ultraviolet light machine, but pain-wise, it's totally fine.
After that first appointment, they might feel mild soreness for a few days as teeth start moving.
Nothing that stops them from eating or going to school.
Just a gentle ache like they worked out a muscle.
If you choose clear aligners, we take digital scans and send them to the lab.
A few weeks later, your teen picks up their first set of trays and we show them how to put them in and take them out.
They switch to a new tray every 1 to 2 weeks depending on the plan.
Appointments are shorter because we're just checking progress.
Throughout treatment, your teen will see their smile changing.
That's the magic moment when they get genuinely excited.
Not because mom or dad told them to be.
But because they can actually see it happening.
Real Talk: How to Keep Your Teen Motivated During Treatment
Orthodontics is a long game.
Eighteen months to two and a half years is a long time when you're a teenager.
Here's what helps keep the momentum going:
Make it their decision. If they feel like you're forcing them into treatment, they'll resent it.
If they choose the treatment themselves (or at least feel like they did), they're way more likely to take care of it and stick with it.
Keep pictures. Take a photo of their smile on day one and then every month.
By month three, the changes are obvious.
That visual proof is huge for motivation.
Acknowledge the little wins. "Your teeth look so much straighter" is way more powerful than you'd think.
Don't make it weird. Plenty of teenagers have braces or aligners.
It's normal.
Your teen will feel better about it if you act like it's just part of growing up.
Help with the care routine. If they have braces, they need to brush carefully and avoid sticky foods.
If they have aligners, they need to remember to wear them.
Gentle reminders help, not nagging.
Why Choosing the Right Orthodontist Matters More Than You Think
Not all orthodontists are the same.
Some practices are assembly lines where your kid is just a patient number.
Other practices actually care about the person inside the braces.
At SMILE-FX, we're board-certified specialists, which means we spent extra years training specifically in orthodontics.
We see teenagers every single day.
We know what works, what doesn't, and how to keep a teenager engaged in their own treatment.
Our team actually enjoys working with adolescents.
We remember their names, ask about their sports or school, and celebrate their progress.
We use cutting-edge technology that makes treatment faster and more comfortable than old-school methods.
Digital imaging instead of film.
Gentler forces on teeth.
Smarter treatment planning.
Your teen gets better results in less time.
Check out why SMILE-FX stands out from other practices, or read what our patients and families say about their experiences.
Questions Teens and Parents Always Ask
Will braces affect my sports or activities?
Not really.
Athletes wear braces all the time.
If your teen plays contact sports, a mouthguard goes over the braces.
Takes maybe a week to get used to it, then it's fine.
For clear aligners, just take them out during practice or games.
Can I get treatment faster if we pay more?
No.
Teeth move at their own speed.
You can't force them faster without damaging them.
What we do guarantee is efficient treatment with no wasted time.
What if my teen forgets to wear their aligners?
Then treatment slows down or stalls.
That's why we recommend aligner treatment for responsible teenagers.
If your teen tends to lose things or forget responsibilities, braces might be the better call.
They're always there doing the work.
Will my teen have a retainer after treatment?
Yes.
Teeth want to move back to their original positions.
A retainer holds them in place while the bone and ligaments around the teeth stabilize.
Most teens wear a retainer at night for years after braces come off.
Check out our other treatments and retention options to see all the retainer styles we use.
The Confidence Factor: What Happens After Treatment
This is the part nobody talks about enough.
Straight teeth aren't just about looks.
They're about confidence.
When your teenager finishes treatment and sees their new smile, something shifts.
They smile more in photos.
They laugh without covering their mouth.
They stand taller.
That's not shallow.
That's real.
Confidence affects how they interact with peers, how they perform academically, how they present themselves in college interviews.
The ripple effects are bigger than you'd expect.
Beyond the psychological stuff, straight teeth also mean better oral health long-term.
Crowded teeth are harder to clean.
Properly aligned teeth reduce your risk of gum disease and tooth decay down the line.
You're not just giving your teenager a better smile.
You're investing in their future health and well-being.
Getting Started With Phase 2 Orthodontics for Your Teen
If your teenager is ready for comprehensive treatment, the first step is a consultation with someone who actually specializes in adolescent orthodontics.
Not a general dentist offering braces as a side service.
A real orthodontist who treats teens every day and knows what works.
At SMILE-FX, our Miramar location serves families across Broward County.
We make the process easy and zero-pressure.
We explain what we're seeing, what the options are, and what the timeline looks like.
Then you decide what feels right for your family.
Book a free 3D scan and VIP smile consultation to get answers specific to your teen's situation.
Schedule your free 3D scan and VIP smile consultation here.
No pressure, no sales pitch, just honest orthodontics from specialists who actually care about your teenager's smile and confidence.
Adult Orthodontics and Complex Cases: Why It's Never Too Late to Fix Your Smile in South Florida
You're in your thirties, forties, or beyond, and you're looking in the mirror thinking about the smile you've always wanted.
Maybe you never had braces growing up.
Maybe you did, but your teeth shifted over the years.
Maybe you just decided now is the time to stop putting it off.
Here's what you need to know right away: you're not too old, and adult orthodontics isn't as disruptive as you think it is.
Why More Adults Are Getting Braces and Clear Aligners Than Ever Before
The number of adults seeking orthodontic treatment has exploded in the last decade.
We're talking about people who are 30, 40, 50, and beyond finally deciding they want to straighten their teeth.
It's not vanity.
It's not peer pressure.
It's just people who realize that a straight smile affects how they feel about themselves every single day.
When you're eating lunch with colleagues, taking photos, or just talking to someone new, your smile is part of the first impression you make.
For years you've been covering your mouth when you laugh.
Avoiding photos where your teeth are visible.
Feeling self-conscious in situations where you shouldn't have to.
That gets exhausting.
Adult orthodontics fixes that.
And the good news is that adult teeth move just as predictably as teenage teeth do.
Your bone might be denser, so treatment sometimes takes a few months longer, but the results are just as powerful.
Adult Orthodontics for Busy Professionals: Fitting Treatment Into Real Life
I get it.
You've got a full life.
You can't just disappear for months while your teeth get straightened.
You need a solution that works around your schedule, not against it.
That's exactly why clear aligners and discreet braces have changed the game for working adults.
With clear aligners, nobody even knows you're in treatment.
You wear them for 20 to 22 hours a day, take them out to eat, and that's it.
No metal brackets drawing attention in board meetings.
No dietary restrictions affecting your client lunches.
Your teeth are moving while you're handling your business.
Appointments happen every 4 to 6 weeks and usually take about 20 minutes.
That's easier to schedule than most dentist cleanings.
For professionals who want traditional braces, we offer tooth-colored options that blend in way better than the silver brackets most people remember from their own childhoods.
They're way more subtle than you'd think.
The bottom line is this: your adult life doesn't need to stop while you're straightening your teeth.
Complex Cases That Adults Face: When Teeth Aren't Your Only Challenge
Adult orthodontics gets more complicated sometimes because teeth aren't all we're dealing with.
By the time you're an adult, your jaw has stopped growing.
That means we can't reshape your jaw like we can with teenagers whose bones are still developing.
Some complex cases need a different approach.
Maybe your teeth shifted because of a habits like tongue thrusting or mouth breathing that developed over decades.
Maybe your bite is so far off that straightening teeth alone won't solve it.
Maybe you need treatment for cases involving serious crowding, spacing, severe overbite, underbite, or crossbite.
These situations sometimes require working with an oral surgeon if jaw repositioning is necessary, but for most adult patients with complex cases, braces or aligners handle the job.
The key is getting a proper evaluation from someone who's actually trained to spot what can be done with orthodontics alone and what might need additional support.
A board certified orthodontist has the training to make that call.
General dentists don't.
That's the difference.
How Teeth Move Differently in Adults Versus Teenagers
Adult bone responds slower to the pressure we apply to teeth.
That's just biology.
It means that while a teenager's teeth might shift noticeably in a few weeks, your teeth might take a few weeks longer to show that same movement.
But here's what matters: adult teeth move just as predictably.
We know exactly where they're going and how long it's going to take to get there.
Treatment timelines for adults range from 18 months to about 3 years depending on complexity.
That sounds like a long time until you realize you're going to be alive for another 40, 50, or 60 years.
Three years is nothing.
Three years of feeling confident about your smile for the rest of your life is a fair trade.
Modern orthodontic technology speeds things up too.
We're using cutting-edge technology like digital imaging and precision bracket placement that makes treatment more efficient than it used to be.
Your grandmother's braces took longer partly because the technology wasn't as good.
Yours will be faster.
The Financial Reality: Orthodontics for Adults and Insurance
Here's where adults get surprised: most dental insurance plans actually don't cover orthodontics for people over 18.
Some do, but it's rare.
So you're typically paying out of pocket, which is why cost matters.
Adult orthodontic treatment ranges from about $3,500 to $8,000 depending on complexity and which treatment option you pick.
Clear aligners tend to be on the higher end because of the custom tray manufacturing involved.
Traditional braces tend to be on the lower end.
The good news is payment plans exist.
Most orthodontists spread costs across your treatment period so you're not paying thousands upfront.
Monthly payments usually land somewhere between $100 and $300, which isn't breaking your budget if you plan it right.
Some practices offer discounts if you pay cash or pay upfront.
It's always worth asking.
Invisalign for Adults: The Silent Choice for Discreet Treatment
When it comes to Invisalign and clear aligner treatment, adults are the biggest users.
It makes sense.
You've built a professional reputation.
You don't need braces to be the first thing people notice about you in a meeting.
Invisalign works by moving your teeth gradually through a series of custom-made plastic trays.
You swap them out every week or two, and your teeth shift into position slowly and steadily.
The trays are removable, which means you can eat whatever you want, drink whatever you want, and brush and floss normally.
Your oral health doesn't suffer during treatment because you're not dealing with brackets and wires.
The tradeoff is that you need to be disciplined.
If you don't wear the trays for 20 to 22 hours a day, treatment slows down or stops.
For adults who are motivated and organized, this is perfect.
For adults who travel constantly or have an unpredictable schedule, sometimes traditional braces work better because they're always there doing their job.
What About Braces for Adults: The Traditional Route Still Works
Braces aren't as metal-mouth looking as they used to be.
Modern braces are smaller, lighter, and way more comfortable.
Tooth-colored brackets blend in with your teeth so they're barely noticeable in conversation or even in close-up photos.
Some adults actually prefer braces because they're guaranteed to work.
You don't have to remember to put anything in.
You don't have to take anything out.
You just come in every 4 to 6 weeks for adjustments and let the braces do their thing.
Braces are also better for serious complex cases where we need maximum control over tooth movement.
If your bite is really off or your teeth need significant repositioning, braces give us more precision than aligners do.
Adult Orthodontics and Gum Health: What You Need to Know
One thing that changes with age is gum health.
Adults dealing with gum recession or existing gum disease need to be careful about orthodontics.
The good news is that orthodontics doesn't cause gum disease.
The bad news is that if you already have it, we need to manage it during treatment.
That's why a thorough evaluation before you start is crucial.
Your board certified orthodontist should work with your general dentist or periodontist to make sure your gums are healthy enough for treatment.
Sometimes that means treating the gum disease first, then starting orthodontics.
Sometimes it means managing both at the same time.
But it's absolutely possible to straighten your teeth as an adult even if you have gum concerns.
You just need a specialist who knows how to handle it.
Retention After Adult Orthodontics: Keeping Your Smile for Life
Once your teeth are straight, they want to move back to where they came from.
That's just how teeth work.
So retention is crucial, and honestly, it's probably more important for adults than teenagers.
Your bone is denser and less adaptable, so teeth can shift faster if you're not wearing retention.
Most adults wear a fixed retainer on the back of their lower front teeth permanently.
It's a thin wire bonded to the backs of your teeth where nobody sees it.
You brush and floss around it like normal.
It stays there for years.
You might also wear a removable retainer at night.
Check out our other treatments and retention options to see all the styles available.
The point is: retention isn't optional.
It's part of keeping your investment protected.
Why You Should Work With a Specialist, Not a General Dentist
Here's something that surprises a lot of adults: plenty of general dentists offer braces.
That doesn't mean they should.
Orthodontics is a specialty that requires 2 to 3 years of additional training after dental school.
A specialist has diagnosed and treated thousands of cases.
They understand how bite relationships work, how jaws function, and how complex cases need to be approached.
A general dentist offering braces on the side is like a mechanic offering dental work.
Sure, they might know the basics, but you're not getting expertise.
For adults with complex cases especially, you need that expertise.
The difference shows up in your results.
Your timeline.
Your comfort during treatment.
That's why choosing the right practice matters so much.
Getting Started With Adult Orthodontics in South Florida
If you're ready to finally get the smile you've wanted, the first step is a real consultation with someone who specializes in adult cases.
Not a sales pitch.
Not a pressure situation.
Just an honest assessment of what's possible, what it costs, and what the timeline looks like.
SMILE-FX handles adult cases for the whole South Florida area including Fort Lauderdale, Miramar, Aventura, and West Palm Beach.
We're the top rated orthodontist for adults who want real expertise with modern technology and flexible treatment options.
Book your free 3D scan and VIP smile consultation here.
You'll get answers specific to your situation, see what your smile could look like after treatment, and understand exactly what adult orthodontics looks like for you.
No pressure.
No obligation.
Just the information you need to make the right call.