Most patients complete orthodontic treatment in 18–24 months, though this varies significantly by case complexity. Simple alignment corrections can finish in 12 months; complex bite cases may take longer. Orthodontic treatment timing is determined by your specific bite, tooth positions, and compliance with wear instructions (for Invisalign patients). Dr. Sharma provides a realistic estimate at your free consultation — and the AAO recommends getting this in writing before treatment begins.
Some mild soreness is completely normal for the first few days after braces are placed, and after each adjustment. This is your teeth responding to the gentle pressure of movement — a good sign that treatment is working. Most children adapt quickly and find the discomfort very manageable. Soft foods and over-the-counter pain relievers (as directed) help during those first days. The honest answer to ‘do braces hurt for kids’ is: briefly, mildly, and less than most expect.
The cost of braces without insurance at Smiles for Kids varies by treatment type and case complexity. Metal braces are typically the most affordable option. Invisalign and clear braces are priced higher. We provide a complete cost estimate at your free consultation. For families without orthodontic insurance coverage, we offer CareCredit and in-house payment plans to make treatment accessible.
The AAO recommends orthodontic evaluation by age 7 — even if no treatment is immediately needed. Early evaluation lets Dr. Sharma monitor jaw growth and identify the ideal orthodontic treatment timing for your child’s specific development. This evaluation is always free at Smiles for Kids.
Both braces and Invisalign® move teeth to their correct positions — the difference is how. Traditional braces use brackets and wires permanently attached to your teeth. Invisalign uses custom clear aligner trays that are removable. Braces are often more effective for complex cases and require no compliance. Invisalign® offers flexibility and invisibility but requires consistent wear (20–22 hours daily). Dr. Sharma recommends the right option based on your specific case at your free consultation.
Not necessarily. Early orthodontic treatment (Phase 1) is recommended only for specific developing problems — crossbites, severe crowding, jaw discrepancies — where early intervention genuinely simplifies future treatment. Dr. Sharma’s evaluation is honest: she recommends early treatment only when the evidence supports it.
Excellent oral hygiene is essential during orthodontic treatment. Brush after every meal using a soft-bristled brush. Use a floss threader or water flosser to clean between brackets and wires. Avoid hard, sticky, or crunchy foods that can break brackets. Our team provides a full care guide and demonstrates proper technique at your bonding appointment.
Orthodontic appointments are offered Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM at our Cumming, Decatur, and Peachtree Corners offices — early-morning start times make it easier to schedule braces adjustments around school. Saturday hours (8:00 AM – 3:00 PM) at those offices are for pediatric dental visits. Our Marietta (East Cobb) office is open Monday and Wednesday, 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM. Call 770-781-0203 (Cumming, Decatur, Peachtree Corners) or 770-973-7687 (Marietta) to find a time that works for your family.
Yes. We accept most major dental insurance plans that include orthodontic benefits. Our team verifies your specific coverage before treatment begins. We also accept Georgia Medicaid if it includes orthodontic benefits in your plan. For out-of-pocket costs, CareCredit and in-house payment plans are available.
After orthodontic treatment is complete, Dr. Sharma fits you with a custom retainer to maintain your results. Consistent retainer wear is essential — teeth naturally want to shift back toward their original positions. Most patients wear retainers nightly indefinitely. We schedule follow-up retention checks to confirm your smile stays exactly where it should be.
