Braces & Invisalign for Teensin La Grange, IL
Serving La Grange Park, Lyons, Western Springs, Hinsdale, Brookfield, and Westchester
Braces or clear aligners for the middle and high school years, chosen around your teen's bite and how they actually live.
What is the best orthodontic treatment for teens?
Most teens can be treated with either braces or Invisalign clear aligners. Both apply steady, gentle pressure that moves teeth into a healthier position, and both correct crowding, gaps, overbites and underbites. The teenage years are a common time to start because most baby teeth are gone, the adult teeth have come in and the jaw is still growing, which helps certain bite corrections along.
The better question is which option suits your teen. Some bites need the constant, precise control of traditional metal braces. Some teens care most about how their smile looks in class photos and would do well with tooth-colored ceramic brackets. Others are organized enough to wear removable aligners for most of the day and would love to skip the food rules. Dr. Patel is a board-certified orthodontist and a certified Invisalign provider, so he offers all three and has no reason to steer a family toward one.
Parents and teens make that decision together here. After a digital scan, Dr. Patel shows both of you what is happening with the bite and explains which options would work and why. He also answers the questions a teenager is more likely to ask than a parent, like whether braces will get in the way of sports, band or a school dance.
Frequently asked questions
Questions teens and parents ask most before starting treatment.
Many teens start between 11 and 15, once most adult teeth have come in, but there is no single right age. Dr. Patel bases timing on how the teeth and jaw are developing, not a birthday. Older teens can be treated as well, and younger children are better served by a first orthodontic check around age 7.
Yes. Teens in contact sports should wear a mouthguard made to fit over braces, and aligners can be swapped for a mouthguard during games. Wind instrument players usually adjust within a week or two. If a bracket comes loose during a game, these steps for handling orthodontic emergencies will tide you over until we can see your teen.
It can be, for teens with mild to moderate concerns who will keep the aligners in for most of the day. Dr. Patel will tell you honestly whether your teen's bite and habits suit aligners. If braces would be more reliable, he will say so.
Cost depends on the type of treatment and how long it will take, and Dr. Patel gives you exact figures at the free consultation. We accept most major PPO plans and offer interest-free payment plans managed in-house.
Teens who had Phase 1 interceptive treatment often need a shorter second phase, because the jaw and spacing were already guided. Dr. Patel plans the teen phase from the records taken during that earlier care.
Still Have Questions?
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What patients are saying
Real experiences from patients and families who trusted us with their smiles.