Types of braces
If you’re thinking about straightening your smile, a range of treatment options are available, depending on the complexity of your needs, and your preferences.
If you’re looking for something discreet, near-invisible options are available, including clear, removable aligners, ceramic clear braces and lingual braces (positioned behind the teeth).
For complex cases, your dentist or orthodontist may recommend traditional fixed braces, a reliable and predictable solution.
Interested in teeth straightening?
Get in touch with your nearest Bupa practice. They can help you book an orthodontic consultation and answer any queries.
Clear, removable aligners
Clear aligners are thin, transparent trays that are custom-made to your smile. They’re virtually unnoticeable to others and can be removed for eating and brushing.
Options include Invisalign aligners.
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Fixed braces
Fixed braces are made up of brackets which are attached to your teeth, and wires that join them together.
They’re a popular choice due to their predictable results and are often recommended in more severe cases.
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Cosmetic teeth straightening
Straightening only the front, visible teeth, cosmetic teeth straightening can take as little as six months.
It’s suitable for those looking for a cosmetic fix, only.
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Metal, removable braces
Removable braces clip onto the back teeth and can be taken out for brushing, sport, eating or playing instruments.
They can treat a range of concerns, including crowded and crooked teeth, and bite concerns.
What's the best type of orthodontic treatment for me?
The best option for you depends on your lifestyle and preferences, and your orthodontic needs, e.g. the severity of your case and whether you have a misaligned bite.
During your consultation, the dentist or orthodontist will examine your teeth and discuss your needs. They’ll then be able to recommend suitable treatments.
To find out more or book a consultation, contact your local practice offering orthodontics.
Learn more about teeth straightening
Crooked teeth
Did you know that crooked teeth could lead to oral health issues, including tooth decay, gum disease and tooth fractures?
What to expect
Find out what to expect on your orthodontic journey, from your consultation, to your final results and aftercare.
Patient stories
Find out what it’s like to have braces or aligners, from some of our orthodontic patients.
Braces for children and teens
Under 18s can have fixed braces on the NHS, if they meet certain criteria.
If your child doesn’t qualify, or would prefer something discreet, a range of private options are available.
Braces cost and finance
Learn about the cost of braces and payment options available.
Braces and aligners are appliances used by dentists to correct a variety of teeth concerns. These include crooked teeth, overcrowding, protruding teeth, gaps between teeth and bite issues such as an overbite or open-bite. The appliances apply gentle, gradual pressure to your teeth to gently guide them to the final position. Options include fixed braces, removable metal braces and clear aligners:
- Fixed braces: A popular, predictable option, fixed braces are made up of brackets attached to your teeth and joined by a wire. Depending on your needs, different types are available. These include traditional metal braces, clear ceramic braces and lingual braces.
- Removable metal braces: These are removable devices which clip onto the arches (sets of teeth) of the upper or lower jaw, gently guiding your teeth from both sides. Options include Inman aligners.
- Clear, removable aligners: Clear aligners are made of thin, flexible, transparent plastic that’s moulded to fit comfortably over your teeth. Treatment options include Invisalign aligners.
Duration of treatment depends on the complexity of the case and type of brace used. After an initial consultation, your dentist or orthodontist will develop your bespoke treatment plan, including an estimated treatment duration.
Cosmetic teeth straightening is an option that involves straightening the front, visible teeth only, and can take as little as six months. It’s a cosmetic fix only, so if you have a clinical requirement for orthodontics, cosmetic straightening won’t be suitable.
If you wear braces, the shape of your face may change gradually as your teeth move, becoming more balanced and symmetrical. This is because treatments to correct overbites or overjets can alter the relative positions of your upper and lower jaw. Similarly, straightening protruding or misaligned teeth will change the pressure on your lips or cheeks, changing their outline slightly.
If you have traditional fixed braces, different colours are available. You can either opt for grey or silver, to match the metal brackets, or you can choose from a range of colours.
Another option is clear, ceramic braces. These are just like traditional braces but with discreet, clear brackets.
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**Finance applicant must be aged 18 or over, a UK resident, have a UK bank account and be in permanent employment. All loans are subject to eligibility, status, affordability and a credit check. T&Cs apply. Finance is available on private dental treatments only.
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