Traditional metal braces
What are traditional metal braces?
Traditional metal braces, also known as train track braces, are one of the most popular teeth straightening choices due to their predictable, reliable results.
They consist of small metal brackets which are fixed onto your teeth and joined by a wire.
The wires are gently tightened over the course of the treatment, to guide your teeth into their new position.
Interested in teeth straightening?
Find your nearest Bupa or Total Orthodontics practice offering teeth straightening and get in touch. They'll be able to answer any questions or help you book a consultation.
What problems can traditional braces fix?
Fixed metal braces are suitable in most orthodontic cases. They can treat problems such as crooked teeth, crowded teeth, gaps between teeth, and bite issues, such as an overbite and overjet.
They’re often recommended in more severe cases as they can create a large amount of teeth movement.
After your consultation, the dentist or orthodontist will be able to advise on the most suitable teeth straightening option for you.
How much do traditional braces cost?
NHS fixed braces are free of charge to under 18s. For adults who qualify, braces fall under the Band 3 treatment fee in England and Wales. Pricing for NHS Scotland and Northern Ireland works differently. Find out more about our NHS treatment options.
If you or your child would like traditional braces, but don’t qualify for NHS care, you can access treatment privately. For an accurate quote, book a consultation with an orthodontist or dentist providing orthodontics. The cost will depend on your individual needs.
At Bupa Dental Care, some of our practices offer Orthodontic Essentials. This is fixed braces for under 18s, at a cost of £2,200. Please ask your local practice for more information.
If you’d like to spread the cost of your treatment, Bupa Dental Care offers a range of finance options.* Speak to your nearest practice to find out more.
Find your nearest practiceBraces on the NHS
NHS orthodontic treatment usually uses traditional metal braces. Treatment is available to under 18s who qualify for NHS care, and adults in a small number of cases. Most adults don't qualify and will need to seek private orthodontic treatment.
To access free NHS care, your child will be referred to a specialist orthodontist by their usual dentist. The specialist will assess if they’re eligible for NHS braces by grading them on a scale called the Index of Orthodontic Need (IOTN).
Braces for children and teensSpread the cost of your teeth straightening
Patient finance is available for orthodontic treatments that cost between £250 and £50,000 at 0% APR** when you choose a repayment term of between 3 months and 36 months (subject to the amount of credit). This means that you can spread the cost of teeth straightening over a term that suits you, and you won;t pay back any more than you would pay otherwise.
Once you have agreed your treatment plan with your dentist, you’ll have the option to apply.
Terms and conditions apply.
What are the alternatives to fixed metal braces?
Other fixed braces:
As well as traditional metal braces, fixed options include ceramic braces, which have clear brackets, and lingual braces which are attached behind the teeth. Both options are more discreet than traditional metal braces.
Removable braces and aligners:
Removable braces and aligners are also available. Clear, removable aligners are thin, transparent moulds that fit over your teeth. Removable metal aligners are clip-on devices, with options including Inman Aligners.
During your consultation, the dentist or orthodontist will discuss the best treatment options for you.
Learn more about teeth straightening
Fixed braces
Find out more about traditional fixed metal braces.
Braces cost and finance
Learn about the cost of braces and payment options available.
Orthodontics at Bupa
Teeth straightening treatment is available at most Bupa Dental Care practices, and at all Total Orthodontics practices nationwide.
Crooked teeth
In some cases, crooked teeth can result in oral and general health problems, such as gum disease, tooth decay and headaches.
Patient stories
Find out what it’s like to have braces or aligners, from some of our orthodontic patients.
Caring for your brace
From eating and drinking with braces, to managing discomfort, find out how to best care for your brace.
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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.
**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.
