Picture this: your teen is laughing with friends at HomerFest or snapping selfies at Heritage Park, but every smile is half-hidden behind a hoodie or hand. That quiet self-consciousness shows up more often than you’d think, and it’s one of the most popular reasons parents reach out to Dr. Ryan Booth and Dr. Evan Booth at Booth Orthodontics. Fortunately, getting started with orthodontic care doesn’t have to feel complicated or disruptive. Let’s break down how the process fits into real life here in Homer Glen.

Braces Don’t Hit Pause on Real Life

From hauling a trumpet to Homer Junior High before sunrise to sprinting across the park after class, teens in Homer Glen rarely sit still. And orthodontic treatment shouldn’t slow the momentum! That’s why Dr. Ryan Booth and Dr. Evan Booth at Booth Orthodontics shape care around real life, making room for packed calendars, group chats, and second helpings at Rubi Agave—all without skipping a beat.

Here’s how treatment stays out of the way:

• Quick visits that rarely pull teens out of school for long
• Flexible scheduling with appointment options that work around practice and extracurriculars
• Minimal disruption to daily life, including sports, music, and social events
• Clear expectations from the start, so everyone knows what to plan for

Instead of reshaping your teen’s world around braces or aligners, Booth Orthodontics builds treatment around how they already live. Up next, let’s look at the different options available and how to know what’s right for your teen.

Making the Right Choice for Your Teen’s Smile

No two teens are alike, and neither are their treatment needs. Dr. Ryan Booth and Dr. Evan Booth help families in Homer Glen choose the option that actually works for them. Here’s what your teen might wear, and why it might work:

Metal Braces

Tried, tested, and still one of the most efficient options out there (especially for complex bite issues). Today’s versions are lower-profile and more comfortable than ever, making them a reliable choice for teens who don’t mind showing off a little shine.

Clear Braces

Made from tooth-colored ceramic, these blend in more with the natural tooth shade for a lower-visibility look. They’re great for teens who want something subtle but aren’t candidates for aligners.

Invisalign® Teen

These clear, removable trays are designed with teens in mind: built-in wear indicators and room for erupting molars included. They’re a top pick for responsible wearers who want freedom during sports, selfies, or snack time.

Once the plan is set, the real magic happens in the day-to-day. Let’s take a look at how teens and parents can help make treatment go smoothly.

How to Keep Things Moving

Staying on track with orthodontics takes teamwork. Booth Orthodontics makes treatment feel doable, but consistency is what turns a good plan into great results. The good news? You don’t have to micromanage. Just help your teen build a few smart habits, and the rest tends to fall into place.

Here’s what really helps:

1. Keep aligners where they belong – Invisalign Teen only works if it’s worn 20–22 hours a day. Luckily, built-in wear indicators make it easier to stay accountable.

2. Skip the gummy bears – Sticky, chewy snacks and braces don’t get along. Save the treats for after.

3. Brush like a pro – Cleaner teeth = smoother treatment. Booth Orthodontics sends patients home with tools that make it easier.

4. Make those check-ins count – Quick visits at Booth Orthodontics help fine-tune progress and avoid delays.

With those habits in place, families can feel confident about reaching the finish line. Let’s talk about how long that usually takes.

So… How Long Is This Going to Take?

It’s the question every teen (and let’s be honest, every parent) asks: “How long do I have to wear these?” The answer? It depends, but Booth Orthodontics keeps things moving efficiently with smart planning, consistent check-ins, and a little help from you at home.

Here’s what to expect:

• Most treatments last 12–24 months, depending on how much movement is needed and how consistent your teen is with their care.
• Mild cases with clear aligners may wrap up faster, especially when trays are worn exactly as directed.
• More complex treatments (like bite corrections) may take a little longer but tend to follow a predictable pace.
• Delays happen if: appointments are missed, aligners aren’t worn, or brackets break. So, staying on track matters.

Still, once treatment is done, there’s one last step to lock everything in, and it’s an important one. Let’s talk retainers.

Retainers: Quietly Doing the Heavy Lifting

Braces and aligners may do the work, but retainers make the results last. After treatment, Dr. Ryan Booth and Dr. Evan Booth set every teen up with the tools to keep their smile steady, and it starts with choosing the right retainer.

Clear, removable retainers are the most popular. They’re nearly invisible, comfortable to wear at night, and easy to replace using 3D scans. Booth Orthodontics includes two full sets (upper and lower) with treatment. 

• Extras are available: a single arch is $200, two sets are $500, and four sets are $700.

Bonded retainers are a good option for teens who might forget to wear theirs. These are attached behind the front teeth and work around the clock. 

• Replacements are $343, or $400 if paired with a new clear retainer. Repairs are $95.

Extras include retainer insurance ($880 for 10 years of $25 copay replacements) and a whitening pen kit ($50), which can be bundled at the time of delivery.

Retainers are what turn all that effort into lasting results, and Booth Orthodontics makes it easy to keep things locked in.

Smiles That Go the Distance

Braces may come and go, but the confidence gained sticks around forever. That’s exactly the kind of care Booth Orthodontics is known for. With thoughtful treatment, flexible options, and a team that truly gets Homer Glen families, your teen’s smile is in good hands from start to finish. Dr. Ryan Booth and Dr. Evan Booth are ready when you are! Schedule your complimentary in-person or virtual consultation today and let’s make the next smile in your family one they’ll really want to show off.