What are clear braces?
Clear, ceramic braces work the same way as traditional, metal braces, but are a more discreet option. They’re suitable for all ages, from children to adults.
Clear braces are made up of ceramic brackets that are attached to the teeth with a wire running through them. The wire is gradually tightened, guiding your teeth towards the final position.
Ceramic brackets can either be clear or tooth-coloured, making them virtually invisible. The wire is often metal, but can also be tooth-coloured, making them even more discreet.
Interested in teeth straightening?
To find out more, or to book an orthodontics consultation, contact your nearest practice.
How much do clear, ceramic braces cost?
While traditional braces are available on the NHS to those who meet certain criteria, clear braces are only available privately.
The cost will depend on the severity of your case. After your consultation and clinical assessment, the dentist or orthodontist will recommend the best aligner or brace options for you. They’ll then create a bespoke treatment plan, fully outlining the cost involved.
Payment options are available at many Bupa Dental Care practices, allowing you to breakdown the costs.* Speak to your local practice to learn more.
What are the different types of near-invisible braces?
A range of ceramic braces are available. These include:
Six Month Smiles
Discreet tooth-coloured braces that can straighten your smile in an average of six months.
Cfast
A system using clear brackets and tooth coloured wire to make cosmetic changes to the front teeth.
Are ceramic braces right for me?
Because ceramic braces are less visible, they may be a good option for you if you're self-conscious about having braces or are looking for a discreet option. They are a type of fixed brace so the results are predictable and can treat a range of cases.
During your consultation, the dentist or orthodontist will examine your smile, and discuss your preferences and lifestyle, to be able to recommend suitable options.
What are the alternatives to clear braces?
As well as clear braces, other discreet orthodontic options are available. These include:
Clear, removable aligners
Clear, removable aligners are thin, transparent, and made of plastic which fits snugly over your teeth. They can be removed for brushing, flossing, eating and drinking. Read more about Invisalign aligners.
Lingual braces:
Lingual braces are just like traditional braces, except they’re fitted behind your teeth, so hidden from view.
Further teeth straightening options include metal, removable braces. These are clipped onto your teeth and include Inman aligners.
Traditional, metal braces are also available. These are available on the NHS to those who qualify, but are also available privately, for children, teens and adults.
Learn more about teeth straightening
Braces FAQs
Common brace questions, answered.
Fixed braces
Find out more about traditional fixed metal braces.
Crooked teeth
In some cases, crooked teeth can result in oral and general health problems, such as gum disease, tooth decay and headaches.
Braces cost and finance
Explore the cost of braces and payment options available.
Braces for children and teens
What are the brace options for children and can they have braces for free? What age can children get braces?
*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.
The minimum spend for finance is £250 and the maximum is £50,000. 0% APR representative is available on repayment terms of up to 36 months subject to the amount of credit. Finance taken at repayment terms of 48 or 60 months is subject to 7.9% APR representative.
Bupa Dental Care is a trading name of Oasis Dental Care Limited, Vantage Office Park, Bristol, BS16 1GW, whose company registered number is 00478127. Oasis Dental Care Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority FCA registration number 710559. Oasis Dental Care Limited is a credit broker and not a lender.
Finance is provided by Novuna Personal Finance, a trading style of Mitsubishi HC Capital UK PLC, authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Financial Services Register no. 704348. Registered Office: Novuna House, Thorpe Road, Staines-upon-Thames, Surrey, TW18 3HP. Registered in Cardiff under company no. 1630491. The register can be accessed through www.fca.org.uk.
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Bupa Dental Care is a trading name of Oasis Dental Care Limited. Registered in England and Wales No: 00478127. Registered office: Bupa Dental Care, Vantage Office Park, Old Gloucester Road, Hambrook, Bristol, United Kingdom BS16 1GW.
Oasis Dental Care Limited has a number of trading names including Bupa Dental Care. Please see the list of our different trading names.