Ep 13. The Smile

The Middle season 4 episode 13, titled "The Smile," follows the often frazzled and overwhelmed Heck family as they deal with the daily grind of life in Orson, Indiana. In this episode, Frankie and Mike's daughter, Sue, is ecstatic to finally get braces, embracing the change as a way to finally fit in with her peers. However, when a mishap at the orthodontist leaves her with a swollen and bruised face, Sue finds herself embarrassed and miserable, struggling to find the courage to return to school.

Meanwhile, Frankie faces her own challenge when she discovers that her dental hygienist, Cindy, is rude and dismissive towards her, leading Frankie to suspect that Cindy is actually flirting with Mike. Frankie's attempts to confront her husband about the situation only lead to more confusion and uncertainty, leaving her feeling more alone than ever.

As the episode unfolds, each of the Heck family members struggles with their own insecurities and doubts, with Axl confronting his own feelings of vulnerability as he attempts to impress his girlfriend, Cassidy, and Brick struggling to find his place in the world as a quirky and imaginative child. Through it all, the Heck family must come together to support one another and find the strength to face their challenges head-on, with plenty of humor and heart along the way.

"The Smile" is a poignant and relatable episode of The Middle, touching on themes of self-esteem, acceptance, and the complex dynamics of family life. With strong performances from its talented cast and a touching, laughter-filled script, this episode captures the unique charm and heart of The Middle, making it a must-watch for fans of the series. Whether you're a long-time viewer or a newcomer to the world of Orson, Indiana, "The Smile" is a standout episode that will leave you laughing, crying, and feeling hopeful about the power of family and community.