Braces in the UK: The Complete Guide to Types, Costs, NHS Eligibility and Treatment (2026)

Braces: the short answer

Braces move teeth gradually to improve their alignment and, where needed, the way the upper and lower teeth meet. Options include fixed metal or ceramic braces, braces fitted behind the teeth, and removable clear aligners.

In England, NHS-funded orthodontic treatment is generally available to eligible patients under 18 with a sufficient clinical need; most adults pay privately, although exceptions can apply. Treatment commonly takes around 6 to 30 months, depending on the problem and treatment plan.

Private fees vary by provider, location, appliance and case complexity, so ask for a written quote covering the full course of treatment and retainers. A dentist or orthodontist can assess which options are suitable for you.

Choosing braces can raise practical questions all at once: which type is suitable, whether NHS treatment is available, how much private treatment costs, what eating and cleaning will be like, and how long the process may take. This guide explains the main considerations for UK readers in plain English.

It is general educational information, not a personal diagnosis or treatment plan. Orthodontic suitability depends on your teeth, gums, bite, dental history and goals. A qualified dental professional should assess your individual needs.

In this guide

1. What braces can help with
2. How braces move teeth
3. Types of braces available in the UK
4. How to choose between braces and clear aligners
5. NHS braces: eligibility and referral
6. Private braces costs in the UK
7. How long does treatment take?
8. Do braces hurt?
9. Eating with braces
10. Cleaning teeth with braces
11. Risks and problems to understand
12. Retainers and life after braces
13. Questions to ask before treatment
14. Braces FAQs
15. Sources and further reading

1. What can braces help with?

Orthodontic treatment is used to improve the position of teeth and the way the teeth meet when you bite. Depending on the case, treatment may help with:

• Crowded teeth: teeth overlap or do not have enough room to line up.
• Gaps: spaces occur between some or all teeth.
• Protruding teeth: upper or lower front teeth sit further forward than expected.
• Bite problems: the upper and lower teeth do not meet in the intended way, such as certain overbites, underbites or crossbites.
• Teeth that are difficult to clean: alignment may be one part of a wider plan to support oral hygiene, although braces themselves require extra cleaning.

Not every difference in tooth position needs treatment. A clinician should explain the likely benefits, limitations, alternatives and risks for your particular case.

2. How do braces move teeth?

Teeth are supported in the jaw by tissues that respond to controlled forces. Braces or aligners apply planned pressure so that the teeth can move gradually as the surrounding bone and supporting tissues remodel.

This biological process takes time. The appliance, the type of movement needed, the health of the teeth and gums, and how consistently you follow the treatment instructions all affect progress. Trying to speed up treatment without clinical guidance can damage teeth or supporting tissues.

Before treatment starts, the clinician may examine your teeth and bite and take photographs, X-rays or digital scans when appropriate. You should receive an explanation of the proposed plan, likely duration, expected results, risks, costs and alternatives.

3. Types of braces available in the UK

There is no single best brace for everyone. The right choice depends on the movements required, your oral health, preferences, budget and the clinician's assessment.

Metal fixed braces

Metal braces use brackets attached to the teeth and a wire that guides tooth movement. They are visible and remain in place during treatment.

Fixed appliances can be used for a wide range of orthodontic problems, including many cases that need detailed control of tooth position. They require careful cleaning and you need to avoid foods that may damage the appliance.

Ceramic braces

Ceramic braces work on a similar principle to metal fixed braces, but their brackets are tooth-coloured or relatively translucent. They may be less noticeable from a distance, although the wire and other components can still be visible. Ceramic components can be more prone to chipping or breakage in some circumstances, and the cost may be higher than metal braces.

Self-ligating braces

Self-ligating braces use brackets with a built-in clip or door to hold the wire, rather than the small elastic ties used with some conventional systems. They are available in different designs.

Do not assume that a self-ligating system will always produce faster treatment or fewer appointments; the outcome depends on the case and treatment plan. Ask the clinician what practical advantage, if any, the proposed system offers for you.

Lingual braces

Lingual braces are attached to the inside surfaces of the teeth, making them difficult to see from the front. They can be a discreet fixed option, but they may be more expensive and can initially affect speech or irritate the tongue. They are not suitable for every case and require careful cleaning.

Clear aligners

Clear aligners are removable, transparent trays that move teeth in stages. They can be convenient for eating and cleaning because they are removed for meals and oral hygiene.

They generally need to be worn for the daily duration specified by the treating clinician, often around 20–22 hours a day depending on the system and plan. Forgetting to wear them or not following the prescribed sequence can compromise progress. Aligners can treat many cases, but they are not the best option for every tooth movement or bite problem.

Read our more detailed guide to types of braces compared.

4. Braces vs clear aligners: how do you choose?

Fixed braces and clear aligners can both be effective when selected for an appropriate case and planned by a suitably trained clinician. Appearance is only one factor.

• Consider fixed braces if you prefer an appliance that stays in place, or your clinician believes fixed mechanics are better suited to the movements required.
• Consider clear aligners if removability is important to you and you can reliably follow the wear schedule and tray instructions.
• Compare the complete plan: ask about bite correction, attachments or elastics, refinements, likely duration, follow-up appointments, retainers and total fees.

Do not choose an appliance based on a promise that it is universally faster, painless or suitable for all cases. Ask why the recommended option is appropriate for your own teeth and whether reasonable alternatives exist.

Read our full braces vs Invisalign UK comparison.

5. Braces on the NHS: who may qualify?

In England, NHS-funded orthodontic treatment is generally available to eligible patients under 18 when there is a sufficient clinical need. It is not automatically provided to every child or teenager who wants straighter teeth. The NHS explains that an assessment is needed and that the orthodontist decides whether treatment is appropriate.

The Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN) is used in England to assess orthodontic need. It includes a Dental Health Component and an Aesthetic Component.

Eligibility is based on the assessment and applicable NHS rules, not simply on whether a person dislikes the appearance of their teeth. NHS Business Services Authority guidance describes the usual funded thresholds and the assessment process.

Rules and service arrangements can differ across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. If you live outside England, check the relevant health service or ask your dentist about the rules that apply where you live.

How to start the NHS process

1. Book a routine appointment with your dentist and explain the concern.
2. If appropriate, ask whether an orthodontic referral is recommended.
3. Attend the orthodontic assessment. This may involve an examination, photographs, X-rays or scans as clinically appropriate.
4. Ask the orthodontic team to explain the assessment result, treatment options and expected waiting time.

Waiting times vary by area and service demand. Do not rely on a general online estimate as a promise of when treatment will begin; ask the referral service for its current position.

Adults usually pay privately for orthodontics, although NHS-funded treatment may be considered in specific circumstances, including certain significant clinical needs. Ask your dentist or relevant NHS service rather than assuming that treatment is either always available or never available to adults.

See our detailed guide to NHS braces eligibility, IOTN assessment and referrals.

6. How much do braces cost in the UK?

Private orthodontic fees depend on the complexity of the case, the appliance, the clinic and region, and what is included in the treatment package. The NHS describes private orthodontic treatment as commonly costing several thousand pounds, with fees potentially higher for more complex treatment.

The ranges below are indicative planning estimates carried forward from Daily Dental's draft, not independently verified national averages or live quotes. Confirm current local prices before publication.

Important: these figures are not a price survey conducted for this updated article. Prices vary, and an assessment may be needed before a provider can give a meaningful quote. Before publication, replace or substantiate these ranges with dated evidence from representative UK clinics or current provider price lists, and state the research date.

What should a braces quote include?

• Initial consultation, photographs, scans and any diagnostic imaging.
• The appliance and planned treatment stages.
• Routine adjustment or review appointments.
• Emergency visits, repairs and replacement parts.
• Retainers, retention reviews and the cost of replacement retainers.
• Any separate charges for extractions, hygiene appointments or additional procedures.
• Payment-plan terms, interest, deposit and what happens if treatment changes or ends early.

Monthly finance payments can make the cost easier to budget for, but compare the total amount payable and the written terms rather than focusing only on the monthly figure.

For more detail, read how much braces cost in the UK.

7. How long does braces treatment take?

There is no single treatment duration that applies to everyone. NHS guidance gives a typical range of around 6 to 30 months, depending on the complexity of the orthodontic problem. Many comprehensive treatments take roughly one to two-and-a-half years, but your clinician should estimate the duration for your own case.

Simple alignment may take less time than treatment involving significant crowding, bite correction or more complex tooth movements. The plan can also change if appointments are missed, an appliance breaks, aligners are not worn as instructed, or teeth and gums need additional care.

At your consultation, ask what the estimated timeline includes, how often appointments are expected, and what factors might extend treatment. A visible change early on does not mean the bite and final tooth positions are ready; finishing and stabilising treatment matter too.

8. Do braces hurt?

Braces are not usually painful to fit, but pressure, tenderness or soreness can occur when treatment starts and after some adjustments. The amount of discomfort and how long it lasts vary from person to person. It often settles after a few days, although some people experience discomfort for longer.

Ways to manage ordinary soreness

• Choose softer foods while your teeth feel tender.
• Follow the cleaning and appliance-care instructions given by your orthodontic team.
• Orthodontic wax may help protect areas rubbed by a bracket or wire; follow the product instructions and your clinician's advice.
• If you are considering a painkiller, follow its label and ask a pharmacist or clinician if you are unsure whether it is suitable for you.

Contact your orthodontic practice if pain is severe, persists beyond the period they advised, or you have a broken appliance, marked swelling or very sore gums. Seek urgent dental or medical advice for serious or rapidly worsening symptoms.

Read our practical guide: do braces hurt, and how can you manage discomfort?

9. What can you eat with braces?

With fixed braces, most people can eat a varied diet, but they may need to change how certain foods are prepared and avoid foods that can bend wires or break brackets. Clear aligners are usually removed for meals, according to the treating clinician's instructions.

Foods that may be easier when teeth are tender

• Yoghurt and soft cheese.
• Scrambled eggs.
• Soft-cooked vegetables.
• Soup that is not too hot.
• Mashed potato, soft rice or pasta.
• Soft fruit cut into small pieces.

Foods to handle carefully with fixed braces

• Hard sweets, ice and very hard crusts.
• Sticky toffee, chewy sweets and chewing gum.
• Whole apples or raw carrots bitten directly; cut them into smaller pieces instead.
• Popcorn kernels and foods that can lodge around brackets.

Limit sugary snacks and drinks, and follow any personalised advice from your orthodontic team. If a bracket or wire breaks, contact the practice for instructions rather than trying to adjust the appliance yourself.

More tips: foods to avoid with braces — and alternatives to try.

10. How do you clean your teeth with braces?

Good oral hygiene is especially important during orthodontic treatment. Plaque can collect around brackets, wires and other appliance parts. If it is not removed effectively, the risk of tooth decay, gum inflammation and lasting white marks on the teeth can increase.

1. Brush carefully: use fluoride toothpaste and follow your dental team's advice on brushing technique and frequency. The NHS advises brushing in the morning, at night and after meals when wearing braces.
2. Clean around the appliance: an interdental brush can help reach spaces around brackets and under wires. Use a size that fits without forcing it.
3. Clean between teeth: ask your dentist or hygienist which interdental cleaning method is appropriate for your teeth and appliance.
4. Follow fluoride advice: ask whether a fluoride mouthwash or a higher-fluoride product is suitable for your individual risk. If using mouthwash, your dental team can advise on timing.
5. Keep regular dental appointments: orthodontic reviews do not replace routine check-ups with your usual dentist.

If you notice persistent bleeding, swollen gums, white marks or difficulty keeping the appliance clean, ask your dental team for advice. Do not wait until the braces are removed to address a problem.

Related guide: how to floss and clean between teeth with braces.

11. Risks and problems to understand before treatment

Orthodontic treatment can be successful, but it is not risk-free. Your clinician should discuss the risks that are relevant to your teeth and medical or dental history before you agree to treatment.

• Tooth decay and white-spot marks: plaque left around appliances can lead to decalcification and decay.
• Gum inflammation: inadequate cleaning can cause red, swollen or bleeding gums.
• Root resorption: some shortening of tooth roots can occur during orthodontic treatment. The significance and risk vary, and your clinician can explain how it relates to your case.
• Discomfort, ulcers or appliance breakage: brackets, wires and aligners can cause temporary irritation or need repair.
• Relapse: teeth can move after treatment, which is why retention and follow-up matter.
• Unexpected treatment changes: the result and timeline cannot be guaranteed exactly in advance; biology and adherence affect outcomes.

Ask for a balanced explanation of the expected benefit, likely limitations, alternatives and what would happen if treatment does not proceed as planned. Healthy teeth and gums and reliable attendance are important parts of treatment readiness.

12. Retainers: what happens after braces?

When braces are removed or aligner treatment ends, the teeth can move again. This is called relapse. Retainers help maintain the result, and long-term retention is commonly recommended. Your orthodontist should tell you which retainer is suitable and how often to wear it.

Removable retainers

These may be clear, close-fitting trays or a design with a wire and acrylic component. They need to be worn as instructed, cleaned correctly and kept safe when not in use. Do not eat with a retainer unless your clinician specifically says it is appropriate.

Fixed retainers

A fixed retainer is a thin wire bonded behind some teeth. It is not removed for everyday use, but plaque can collect around it, so careful cleaning is essential. The wire and bonding should be checked; contact your dental team if it becomes loose or breaks.

Retainers may need repair or replacement. Ask whether they are included in your treatment fee and what future replacements cost. Never assume that a retainer is optional simply because your teeth look straight after treatment.

13. Questions to ask before choosing braces

Take this checklist to your consultation. It can help you compare treatment plans rather than comparing appliance names alone.

• What orthodontic problem are we treating, and what are the realistic goals?
• What options are suitable for my case, and why do you recommend this one?
• What are the main risks, limitations and alternatives?
• How long is treatment likely to take, and how often will appointments be needed?
• What does the full fee include, including scans, adjustments, repairs and retainers?
• What could cause extra charges or extend the treatment?
• Who will provide the treatment, and what qualifications and experience do they have?
• What happens if a bracket breaks, I lose an aligner or a retainer becomes damaged?
• How long will I need to wear retainers, and what ongoing care is required?

In the UK, dentists and orthodontists must be registered with the General Dental Council. You can check a professional's registration through the General Dental Council.

Key takeaways

• Braces can improve tooth alignment and bite, but the best appliance depends on an individual clinical assessment.
• NHS-funded orthodontics is generally available to eligible under-18s with sufficient clinical need; rules vary across the UK.
• Private costs vary substantially. Get a written, itemised quote and verify what is included.
• Treatment commonly takes months to years. Your clinician should estimate the duration for your own case.
• Some discomfort is common at the start and after adjustments, but severe or persistent symptoms need professional advice.
• Careful cleaning during treatment and following retainer instructions afterwards are essential to protect the result.

14. Braces FAQs

What age is best for braces?

There is no single ideal age for every patient. Treatment for children often begins after most adult teeth have erupted, commonly around 12 or 13, but timing depends on dental development and the problem being treated. Adults can also have orthodontic treatment if their teeth and gums are suitable.

Can adults get braces on the NHS?

Adults usually pay privately for orthodontic treatment. NHS-funded treatment may be considered in specific circumstances where there is a significant clinical need, subject to the applicable rules and approval. Ask your dentist or local NHS service about your situation.

Are braces free for children in the UK?

Eligible children and teenagers may receive NHS-funded orthodontic treatment when they meet the clinical criteria. It is not automatically available to every child, and the exact arrangements depend on the UK nation and service. An orthodontic assessment is needed.

How long do braces take to straighten teeth?

Duration depends on the complexity of the case and the treatment plan. NHS guidance gives a typical orthodontic treatment range of around 6 to 30 months. Your clinician can give a more relevant estimate after assessing your teeth and bite.

Do braces hurt when they are fitted?

Fitting braces is not usually painful, but the teeth may feel tender or sore for a few days as they begin to move. Discomfort varies. Contact your orthodontic practice if pain is severe, unusual or persists beyond the period they advised.

Can I eat normally with braces?

You can usually eat a varied diet with fixed braces, but hard, sticky and very chewy foods can damage the appliance. Cut firm foods into smaller pieces and choose softer foods when your teeth are tender. Clear aligners are generally removed for meals as instructed.

Can braces leave permanent marks on teeth?

Poor plaque control during treatment can lead to white-spot marks, which may remain after braces are removed, as well as tooth decay or gum problems. Careful brushing, interdental cleaning, fluoride advice and regular dental care help reduce these risks.

Are clear aligners better than fixed braces?

Neither option is best for everyone. Aligners are removable and discreet but require consistent wear and may not suit every movement. Fixed braces remain attached and can provide different kinds of control. An orthodontist can compare the options for your specific case.

Will I need a retainer after braces?

Most patients need retainers after orthodontic treatment to reduce the chance of teeth moving back. Retainers can be removable or fixed, and your orthodontist will explain the wear schedule, cleaning and follow-up needed.

Can I play sports or musical instruments with braces?

Many people continue sports and musical activities during treatment. For contact sports, ask your orthodontic team about an appropriate mouthguard. Some people need time to adapt to playing a wind instrument with a new appliance.

Continue reading

• How to get braces on the NHS: eligibility and IOTN
• Do braces hurt? Discomfort and relief
• Braces vs Invisalign in the UK
• Types of braces compared
• How much do braces cost in the UK?
• Foods to avoid with braces
• How to floss with braces

15. Sources and further reading

This guide should be reviewed against current official guidance before publication. The sources below support key general statements about treatment, eligibility, hygiene, treatment duration and retention. They do not independently validate the indicative private price ranges shown above.

• NHS — Braces and orthodontics: why braces are used, treatment, NHS availability, care and retainers.
• NHS — Orthodontics: treatment duration, NHS eligibility, costs and oral health considerations.
• NHS Business Services Authority — What is IOTN?: explanation of the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need.
• British Orthodontic Society — Patient FAQs: patient questions, treatment considerations and retention.
• British Orthodontic Society — Retainers: retainer types, use and long-term maintenance.
• General Dental Council — Registration: checking a dental professional's registration.

Important health information

This article is for general information and does not replace an examination or personalised advice from a dentist or orthodontist. Treatment options, risks, eligibility and costs vary. Seek advice from your dental team about your own circumstances.

Editorial transparency: Publish a named clinical reviewer and their verified qualifications only after they have reviewed and approved the content. Add the actual publication and modification dates through the CMS. Check all internal links, prices, images and structured data on the live page before release.