What is cosmetic teeth straightening?
Cosmetic teeth straightening, also known as short-term orthodontics, involves straightening your front, visible teeth and can achieve much quicker results. Focusing on just the front teeth, the treatment is only suitable for those looking for a quick cosmetic change.
A variety of treatments can be used for cosmetic teeth straightening. Depending on your needs, your dentist or orthodontist may recommend clear, removable aligners, ceramic clear braces or Inman aligners. To find out the right type of brace for you, book an orthodontics consultation with your nearest practice.
Interested in teeth straightening?
Get in touch with your nearest Bupa practice. They can help you book an orthodontic consultation and answer any queries.
The benefits of cosmetic teeth straightening
- Cosmetic straightening can take less time than other options. This is because it straightens the front teeth only.
- Virtually-invisible treatment options are available. These include clear, ceramic braces and clear, removable aligners such as Invisalign treatment.
- Cosmetic straightening can increase your confidence in sharing your smile.
How much does cosmetic teeth straightening cost?
The cost of treatment can vary depending on your particular case and type of braces you have.
Cosmetic teeth straightening is only available privately but is usually less expensive than full treatment because it is only treating the front teeth and typically takes less time.
For an accurate quote, book a consultation with a Bupa Dental Care orthodontist or dentist. Find a practice near you.
How long does cosmetic teeth straightening take?
The length of time it takes to move your teeth depends on how much movement is needed, but cosmetic teeth straightening can take as little as four months*.
Following your consultation, the dentist or orthodontist will be able to advise on the duration of your treatment.
What are the different types of cosmetic teeth straightening?
A range of treatments are available, depending on your clinical needs and preferences. These include:
Clear, removable aligners:
Clear, removable aligners are thin, transparent, plastic trays that look like mouth guards or retainers. Read more about Invisalign treatment.
Cfast and Six Month Smiles:
Both systems offer a discreet alternative to traditional braces. They consist of tooth-coloured brackets that are attached to the teeth, and wires that run through them, applying gentle pressure.
Inman Aligners:
A simple, removable appliance that clips-on to your teeth. Inman Aligners consist of a thin, metal bar, which sits over the teeth, and a coiled spring which applies gentle pressure.
In your consultation, the dentist or orthodontist will discuss options and recommend the best treatment for you.
Am I suitable for cosmetic teeth straightening?
In your consultation, the dentist or orthodontist will carry out a full assessment of your teeth and recommend the treatment options. The consultation may include a 3D scan of your smile. 3D dental scanners allow you to preview the results of treatment and help the clinician track progress.
Cosmetic teeth straightening treats your front six upper and front six lower teeth only. It’s only suitable for those with minor crowding or misalignment and looking for a quick cosmetic result.
If you have a clinical need for teeth straightening or need to correct your bite (overjet or overbite), your dentist or orthodontist will recommend alternative options.
More about orthodontic treatment and aftercare
Clear, removable aligners
Clear aligners are popular transparent trays that fit comfortably over your teeth.
Clear, ceramic braces
Learn more about clear braces, the cost, and if they’re right for you.
Braces FAQs
Answers to commonly asked brace questions.
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