Teen Orthodontics in Willowbrook, IL

Willowbrook Orthodontics offers braces and clear aligners built around teen schedules. A free consultation helps find the right fit for your teen.

What Is Teen Orthodontic Treatment?

What Is Teen Orthodontic Treatment?

The teen years are a common and effective time for orthodontic treatment, because most permanent teeth have come in and the jaws are still finishing their growth. At Willowbrook Orthodontics, we offer braces and clear aligners built around teen schedules full of school, sports, and activities. Dr. Yue creates a plan around each teen’s needs and goals, and our team keeps care comfortable and encouraging. Your teen’s first consultation is complimentary.

Three reasons adolescence is the right time for braces:

  1. Most permanent teeth have come in. By ages 11–13, most kids have lost their baby teeth and their permanent teeth have erupted. This is the ideal time to correct bite issues, spacing problems, or misalignment before they become more complicated.
  2. The body is still growing. It’s easier to correct bite problems during adolescence, and with the help of orthodontic appliances we can create an improved appearance and function in a short period of time.
  3. Braces are socially accepted. Many teens are in treatment at the same time, making braces a normal part of life. When it’s done, you’ll have a smile you can be proud of, and benefits that will last your whole life.
How Does Teen Treatment Work?

How Does Teen Treatment Work?

Most teen cases run about 18 to 24 months, though the exact timeline depends on the case and how well aligners are worn. Dr. Yue gives a realistic estimate at the consultation. After active treatment, a retainer helps protect the result.

Dr. Isaac Yue is an experienced orthodontist trained in all the latest treatments for your teen, including a variety of types of braces and clear aligners.

Which Option Is Right for Your Teen?

Which Option Is Right for Your Teen?

Dr. Yue helps each family weigh the trade-offs and choose the option that fits.

  • Metal Braces – Smaller and lighter than ever, with customized options like colored elastic ties on the brackets.
  • Clear Braces – Ceramic or composite brackets blend in with teeth, making them harder to notice.
  • Clear Aligners – Removable, practically invisible trays worn about 22 hours a day, now with compliance indicators that show how often they’re worn.
  • Lingual Braces – Attached to the back of the teeth, where they cannot be seen at all.
  • Other Appliances – For cases needing major tooth or jaw movement. They’re temporary, and they provide a long-term benefit in a short time.

Teen treatment questions

Braces and aligners for busy teens

Why are the teen years a good time for braces or aligners?

Most permanent teeth have erupted by the early teens, and the jaws are still growing, which helps guide correction. This combination makes teen treatment efficient and predictable for a wide range of cases.

What orthodontic options do teens have?

Teens can choose self-ligating metal braces, clear ceramic braces, or clear aligners like Invisalign. Aligners are removable and discreet, which many teens prefer, while braces need no daily discipline to keep in. Dr. Yue helps each family weigh the trade-offs.

How much does teen treatment cost?

Cost depends on the treatment and case. We provide an exact price at a complimentary consultation and offer flexible payment plans, with insurance and FSA/HSA options. See our Getting Started page.

How do we get started?

Schedule a complimentary consultation. Dr. Yue examines your teen’s smile, explains the options, and builds a personalized plan. Call (630) 323-7906.

How teen treatment options compare
Metal braces Clear braces Clear aligners Lingual braces
Visibility Visible; fun colored ties Blend in with teeth Nearly invisible Hidden behind teeth
Removable No No Yes No
Best for Durability and value A subtle look Teens who'll wear trays ~22 hrs/day Maximum discretion

Already did Phase I as a child? Phase II often means finishing that work, not starting over. See our Child & Phase I Treatment page to learn how that stage works. Considering treatment for the first time as an adult? Read our Adult Orthodontic Treatment page.

Quick Facts

  • Braces and clear aligners built around teen schedules
  • Often completes work started in Phase I
  • Options include self-ligating metal braces, lingual braces, and clear aligners
  • Free consultation to find the right fit