Southwood is on the opposite side of Tallahassee from our office, so why do Southwood families make the drive to Vibrant Orthodontics? Mostly because of how we run treatment: clear plans, predictable visits and a team that knows each child. The trip itself is manageable too, about nine miles and typically around seventeen minutes via Capital Circle.
Our office is at 1350 Thomaswood Drive, Tallahassee, FL 32308. Dr. Maryam Rezaie founded the practice in 2021 after earning her DMD at the University of Florida and completing her orthodontic specialty training at Jacksonville University School of Orthodontics.
Is It Worth Driving Across Town for Braces?
Braces last many months, so it is fair to weigh convenience against the kind of care you want. Here is what Southwood parents tell us tipped the balance:
- Everything in writing up front. Diagnosis, plan, timeline and monthly payment are explained before you commit.
- Efficient visits. Treatment is planned so that each appointment has a clear purpose.
- A focus on kids and teens. Traditional braces for young patients are what we do every day.
- Easy communication. Many questions are handled by call or text instead of an extra trip.
Those same points come up again and again in our patient reviews.
Start from Home with a Virtual Consult
For families on the south side, a virtual consult is a smart first step. You can send photos and questions, and our team will let you know whether an in-person visit makes sense right away. When you do come in, the free consult includes an iTero digital scan, which is quick and far more comfortable than traditional impressions.
Braces Options for Southwood Students
Students from Southwood attend a range of schools, and we see patients from all of them. Whatever the school, treatment options are the same:
| Bracket type | Why families choose it |
|---|---|
| Traditional metal | Proven, sturdy and fun with colored ties |
| Clear ceramic | Discreet look for photos, activities and part-time jobs |
Whichever bracket your child picks, braces treatment follows the same plan, the same visit rhythm and the same care routine, so the decision really comes down to looks.
Early Evaluation for Younger Children
We recommend a first orthodontic visit by around age seven, in line with the American Association of Orthodontists. For most kids this is simply a check. Dr. R looks at jaw growth and spacing, and if treatment is not needed yet, your child can join our free Vibrant Kids Club for ongoing growth checks. When earlier intervention would help, we explain two-phase treatment and any appliances involved.
Route from Southwood
From Southwood, take Four Oaks Boulevard to Blair Stone Road, then pick up Capital Circle Southeast and continue north on Capital Circle Northeast. Turn onto Raymond Diehl Road, cross to Thomasville Road and head to Thomaswood Drive. It is about seventeen minutes outside rush hour. We are open Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Planning appointments for early afternoon can shorten the trip.
How We Keep Long-Distance Treatment Efficient
For families farther from our office, we pay extra attention to scheduling. We try to book longer procedures, such as braces placement, at times that avoid school pickup traffic. Regular adjustments are kept as short as possible without cutting corners. If a small issue comes up, like a loose tie or a mild sore spot, we will often talk you through a fix by phone so you do not have to make an extra trip.
Every patient also leaves with written care instructions covering brushing, flossing and the foods to skip, so the daily routine is clear from day one.
Meet the Team Your Family Will See
Because Vibrant Orthodontics is a single-location practice led by one orthodontist, your family will see the same people at nearly every visit. Dr. R personally plans each case, and our team handles scheduling, records and adjustments with the same approach.
A Clear Picture of the Timeline
At the consult, Dr. R will estimate how long treatment should take and how often you will need to come in. Many braces cases last about 18 to 24 months, though simpler cases may be shorter and complex bites longer. How consistently patients wear elastics and keep appointments makes a real difference too.
Southwood parents who work downtown or near the state offices sometimes find it easiest to bring their child in during a lunch hour. Tell us what works for your family and we will do our best to find appointment times that keep the drive reasonable.
Booking your next visit before you leave each appointment is the easiest way to lock in a time that works around the drive.
Southwood Parent FAQ
How often will we need to make the drive?
Adjustment visits are typically every several weeks. We share the full schedule at the start of treatment so you can plan ahead.
What if something breaks and we are far away?
Many issues, like a poking wire, can be handled at home with wax until your next visit. Call first and we can often talk you through a fix; anything that cannot wait is handled as an emergency braces repair.
Do you offer monthly payments?
Yes. We offer simple monthly payment options and will walk you through them at the consult.
Where can I find new patient forms?
Forms are available in our patient resources section, and you are welcome to fill them out before the visit.
Book a Free Braces Consult from Southwood
See whether our approach is right for your family at no cost. Book your free braces consult, contact us online, or call or text (850) 385-8101.