Canopy is one of the newer communities in northeast Tallahassee, and plenty of the families who live there have kids reaching the age for a first orthodontic check. Vibrant Orthodontics is about three miles from the neighborhood, typically around an eight-minute drive by way of Welaunee Boulevard, Capital Circle Northeast and Thomasville Road.
We are located at 1350 Thomaswood Drive, Tallahassee, FL 32308. Dr. Maryam Rezaie, or Dr. R, leads the practice. She holds a Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the University of Florida and completed her orthodontic residency at Jacksonville University School of Orthodontics before opening Vibrant Orthodontics in 2021.
An Orthodontist for Growing Canopy Families
Elementary and middle schoolers are the age group we see most. Parents in Canopy often come to us with a younger child who needs an early check and an older one who is ready for braces. We are happy to see siblings together, and we keep each child’s plan separate and clear.
What families tell us they value is predictability. Before treatment starts you will know the plan, the likely timeline and the monthly payment, and none of it changes without a conversation first.
Early Checks and the Vibrant Kids Club
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic visit by around age seven. For many Canopy families, that means now. At this age Dr. R looks at:
- Whether the upper and lower jaws are growing in balance
- Whether there is enough room for the permanent teeth
- Crossbites, open bites or habits such as thumb sucking that affect the bite
Most kids do not need treatment yet. They join the complimentary Vibrant Kids Club and come back for free growth checks. When early correction is needed, Dr. R may suggest two-phase treatment, using custom appliances such as expanders that are made from a digital scan.
Braces When the Time Is Right
When permanent teeth are in, usually between about 11 and 14, it is time for full braces. We offer:
| Option | Details |
|---|---|
| Traditional metal braces | Durable stainless steel brackets; kids love choosing tie colors |
| Clear ceramic braces | Tooth-colored brackets for a more subtle look |
Younger patients often choose metal brackets for the fun of picking new tie colors, which is a big part of what makes braces for kids feel less intimidating. By middle and high school, attention usually shifts to looks, and braces for teens can be done with clear ceramic brackets that are much harder to notice.
Technology That Makes Visits Easier
Instead of trays of impression putty, we use an iTero scanner to take a quick 3D image of the teeth. Appliances such as expanders are designed from that scan and made with 3D printing and laser sintering for a precise fit. This digital orthodontic technology is faster and much more comfortable for kids, and you can see a preview of the expected result on screen.
Driving from Canopy to Our Office
Take Welaunee Boulevard out of the neighborhood to Capital Circle Northeast, follow it to Raymond Diehl Road, then cross to Thomasville Road and turn toward Thomaswood Drive. The drive is usually about eight minutes, a little longer at school rush. Our office is open Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For quick questions before your visit, you can always call or text.
Siblings, Schedules and Family Planning
It is common for Canopy families to have two or three kids at different stages: one who needs an early check, one in braces, and one wearing retainers. If you would like siblings seen back to back, just ask when you book and we will look for times that let a single trip cover more than one child. Each child still gets a separate plan, a separate timeline and a clear explanation of costs, so nothing gets blurred together.
Dr. R takes time to explain what she sees on each scan. If one of your kids is nervous, let us know when you book so we can take a little extra time walking them through each step.
Paying for Braces Without Surprises
Cost is one of the first things parents ask about, and we think you should have a clear answer before treatment begins. At the free consult, we explain the total fee for your child’s plan, what your insurance is expected to cover, and the simple monthly payment options available. There is no pressure to decide that day. You can review everything at home and call or text with questions.
Many Canopy parents also ask whether they should wait until all baby teeth are gone before scheduling a visit. There is no need to wait. An early look simply tells you where things stand, and it gives Dr. R a baseline to compare against as your child grows.
Questions We Hear from Canopy Parents
My child is seven. Is that too young for braces?
Usually yes, and that is fine. The age-seven visit is a check-up, not a commitment. Most kids simply join our Kids Club for free monitoring.
How often are appointments once braces are on?
Adjustment visits are typically every several weeks. Dr. R will give you a schedule at the start of treatment.
Can I do a consult without driving in first?
Yes. With a virtual consult, you can share photos and ask questions from home before booking an in-office visit.
What if my child has a braces problem on a weekend?
Most issues can wait until we reopen, and orthodontic wax takes care of most weekend annoyances. For anything that hurts or looks serious, reach out and we will help with emergency braces care.
Book Your Free Braces Consult Near Canopy
Starting is simple and free. Book a free braces consult, contact our office, or call or text (850) 385-8101. We look forward to meeting your family.