A Smile That Grows With Your Child
Every parent in Atlanta wants to see their child smile with confidence. From school photos to team pictures, those big, genuine grins are moments we treasure. But if you’ve started to notice crooked teeth, spacing, or bite concerns, you might be wondering: Is it time for braces?
As an orthodontist in Atlanta and fellow parent, I understand that choosing the right time — and the right orthodontic care — can feel overwhelming. At Artemis Smiles, our mission is to make the process clear, comfortable, and confidence-building for both children and their families. So let’s explore what every parent should know before their child begins their smile journey.
The Best Time for That First Orthodontic Visit
Many parents assume orthodontic care starts in the teen years, but the truth is, early evaluation makes a big difference. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children see an orthodontist by age seven — even if all their baby teeth aren’t gone yet.
Why so early? Because that’s when we can spot the first signs of how the jaw and teeth are developing. At this stage, an orthodontist can identify whether a child may benefit from early guidance or simply be monitored as they grow.
Think of it like a wellness check for their smile. Early visits don’t always mean early treatment — sometimes, we just keep an eye on growth and step in at the perfect moment to make future treatment faster and easier.
Subtle Signs Your Child Might Need Braces
Some orthodontic issues are easy to spot — like crowded or crooked teeth. But others are more subtle. Here are a few signs that your child may benefit from an orthodontic evaluation:
Early or late loss of baby teeth
Difficulty chewing or biting food
Thumb sucking beyond age five
Mouth breathing or snoring
Teeth that don’t meet evenly (overbite, underbite, or crossbite)
Speech challenges linked to bite or tongue position
These signs don’t always mean braces are needed right away, but they’re clues that the bite or jaw alignment may need attention. A quick visit with an orthodontist can provide reassurance and, if needed, an early plan for gentle correction.
Myth Busting: What Parents Often Get Wrong About Braces
As parents, we hear all kinds of advice — some helpful, some not so much. Let’s clear up a few of the most common orthodontic myths:
Myth #1: “They’ll grow out of it.”
Sometimes minor issues do self-correct, but jaw and bite imbalances rarely do. Addressing them early often means shorter and simpler treatment later on.
Myth #2: “Orthodontics is just for looks.”
A beautiful smile is wonderful, but orthodontics also improves how teeth function — making it easier to chew, speak, and maintain oral health long-term.
Myth #3: “We’ll wait until all adult teeth come in.”
By that point, the jaw has often stopped growing, which can limit what we can do without more complex interventions. Starting the conversation earlier gives your child more comfortable, efficient options.
At Artemis Smiles, our approach is never one-size-fits-all. We look at your child’s unique growth pattern and recommend the right timing for their smile — not anyone else’s.
More Options Than Ever: Braces That Fit Every Lifestyle
Gone are the days of bulky, uncomfortable metal braces. Today’s orthodontic technology is designed for comfort, aesthetics, and even fun.
We offer several options for children and teens at Artemis Smiles, including:
Traditional Braces: Sleeker, smaller, and more comfortable than ever before — even available in fun colors kids love.
Ceramic (Clear) Braces: Blend with the natural color of teeth for a more subtle look, perfect for camera-shy teens.
Invisalign® for Kids and Teens: Custom clear aligners that are removable, discreet, and great for responsible older children and busy student-athletes.
Our digital scanning technology replaces messy impressions and allows us to create a fully customized, 3D treatment plan. Every smile is mapped with precision, so we can predict movement and progress with incredible accuracy.
How to Prepare Your Child (and Yourself)
Starting orthodontic treatment can be exciting — but it can also come with a few jitters, especially for kids. Here are a few ways to make the experience positive from day one:
1. Focus on the “why.”
Help your child understand that braces aren’t just about looks — they’re about health, confidence, and comfort. When kids know why they’re doing something, they’re much more engaged.
2. Plan for small adjustments.
The first few days can bring mild soreness as teeth begin to move. Stock up on soft foods like mac and cheese, yogurt, and smoothies, and remind your child that it gets easier quickly.
3. Celebrate milestones.
Whether it’s “brace day,” the first adjustment, or finally getting them off, turn it into a celebration. At Artemis Smiles, we love cheering on our patients every step of the way.
4. Stay positive.
Children take their cues from you. If you treat braces as an exciting rite of passage — not a chore — your child will feel the same.
Life After Braces: The Retainer Chapter
When the braces come off, the smile reveal is unforgettable! But that’s not the end of the journey — it’s the start of maintaining those results.
Retainers are essential to keep teeth from shifting back, especially in the first year after treatment. At Artemis Smiles, we provide comfortable, custom retainers and detailed guidance on how to wear and care for them.
Parents can help by keeping the retainer in a safe spot, checking in regularly, and encouraging kids to make wearing it part of their nightly routine. A little consistency now ensures their smile stays beautiful for decades to come.
Why Atlanta Families Trust Artemis Smiles
At Artemis Smiles, we’re proud to serve the Atlanta community with orthodontic care that feels personal, friendly, and focused on your family’s needs. We believe every child deserves to feel confident in their smile — and every parent deserves peace of mind knowing their child is cared for with integrity and compassion.
Our practice blends advanced technology with genuine human connection. From digital treatment planning and Invisalign expertise to our cheerful, supportive team environment, we aim to make each visit something kids actually look forward to.
Dr. Bennie’s philosophy is simple: create smiles that last, confidence that grows, and relationships that matter.
A Confident Smile Starts With Understanding
Braces are more than a treatment — they’re an investment in your child’s future confidence and health. The earlier you learn about your options, the smoother and more rewarding the journey becomes.
If you’re a parent in the Atlanta area and wondering when to start, we’d love to meet you. Schedule a consultation at Artemis Smiles Orthodontics, and let’s take the first step together toward a lifetime of confident, happy smiles.