By Michael J. Seelig, DMD, MS (“Dr. Mike”)
Getting braces is a big milestone—and it’s natural for parents to have questions. If you live in Gallatin or Hendersonville and think your child may need orthodontic treatment, this post covers 5 things parents should know about braces: timing, treatment options, and what to expect before, during, and after braces.
1. The Right Time to See an Orthodontist
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation around age 7. That doesn’t always mean braces are needed right away, but it gives us a chance to monitor growth and development. Early visits to our Gallatin office help us spot potential concerns—like crowding, crossbites, or spacing—before they become bigger challenges.
2. Not All Braces Are the Same
At Shine Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, we offer multiple treatment options tailored to kids and teens. These include:
- Traditional twin braces (the classic style most parents remember).
- Self-ligating braces, which can reduce friction and sometimes shorten treatment times and total number of appointments.
- Invisalign clear aligners, a fantastic choice for teens who want a discreet option that fits into sports, band, and other activities with minimal disruption. Like self-ligating braces, Invisalign patients also have fewer visits in office. We can also virtually monitor treatment progress using Invisalign’s® virtual care platform that gives patients direct access to the doctor and clinical team to make sure treatment is progressing properly. We are one of the few offices in all of Gallatin, Hendersonville, Sumner County, and Middle Tennessee utilizing this brand new technology!
Each child’s needs are different, and during your consultation, we’ll discuss which type of orthodontic care is the best fit.
3. Treatment Times Vary
Every smile is unique, so treatment times vary. Some kids need braces for as little as 12 months, while others may need 18–24 months or longer. Consistency matters—keeping up with appointments, following care instructions, and practicing great oral hygiene all play a big role in helping braces work effectively and efficiently.
4. Life with Braces Isn’t as Hard as You Might Think
Parents often worry about how braces will impact day-to-day life. The truth is, kids adjust quickly. With some small changes—like avoiding sticky or hard foods and wearing a mouthguard for sports—most patients continue enjoying the activities they love. Thanks to advances in orthodontics, today’s braces are smaller, smoother, and more comfortable than ever before.
5. Follow-Up and Retainers Are Key
Getting braces off is exciting, but treatment doesn’t stop there. Retainers are essential for keeping teeth in their new positions. At Shine, we create a customized retainer plan and use advanced monitoring tools to ensure your child’s smile stays straight for years to come.
Choosing Shine Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics
As an orthodontic specialist, I’m passionate about helping children, teens, and adults achieve confident, healthy smiles. Whether you’re considering looking into orthodontics in Gallatin or Hendersonville, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
If you think your child may be ready for braces, schedule a consultation at Shine Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics today. We’d love to meet you and help your family smile brighter!
📍 Located in Gallatin, proudly serving Hendersonville, Sumner County, and the surrounding communities.
