Top 10 Orthodontic Treatments: What You Need to Know

If you're thinking about straightening your teeth, there are now more options than ever. From traditional braces to clear aligners and jaw correction devices, each treatment has its own strengths, costs, and ideal use cases. Here's a practical look at 10 of the most common orthodontic treatments available in the UK — and how to work out which might be right for you.

For a full overview of the treatments we offer, visit our orthodontic treatments page. If you're unsure about the problems affecting your teeth, our problems we treat page is a good place to start.

1. Traditional Metal Braces

Metal braces use brackets and wires to gradually move teeth into better alignment. They are one of the most effective options for correcting crowded teeth, bite problems, and more complex orthodontic cases — and are still the most widely used orthodontic appliance in the UK.

2. Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces work like metal braces but use clear or tooth-coloured brackets. They blend in better with natural teeth, making them a popular choice for teens and adults who want a less obvious fixed treatment. They're slightly more expensive than metal but considerably more discreet.

3. Lingual Braces

Lingual braces are attached to the back surfaces of the teeth, making them hidden from view. They can treat many of the same issues as traditional braces while keeping the front of the smile completely free of visible brackets — the most discreet fixed brace option available.

4. Clear Aligners (Invisalign) 😁

Clear aligners are custom-made plastic trays that fit over the teeth and shift them gradually. They are removable, nearly invisible, and popular among adults who want a flexible treatment option. Invisalign is the most widely recognised brand, but other systems are available. For a full breakdown, see our clear aligners page.

5. Retainers

Retainers help keep teeth in their new position after braces or aligners. They are a critical part of orthodontic care — teeth have a natural tendency to shift back without retention, which is why the British Orthodontic Society recommends lifelong retainer use after treatment.

6. Palatal Expanders

Palatal expanders widen the upper jaw to create more space and improve bite alignment. They are most effective in children and younger teens while the jaw is still developing — the earlier the better. In adults, palatal expansion typically requires a surgical approach.

7. Headgear

Orthodontic headgear is used to guide jaw growth and tooth movement, especially in cases involving severe overbites or underbites. It is usually worn for a set number of hours each day — often during evenings or overnight — to achieve the required force on the jaw.

8. Space Maintainers

Space maintainers are commonly used in children who lose baby teeth earlier than expected. They hold the gap open so adult teeth can come in properly, preventing future crowding or misalignment that would otherwise require more extensive treatment later.

9. Functional Appliances

Functional appliances are designed to correct jaw positioning by encouraging better growth and alignment. They are often used in children and teens with developing bite issues — particularly overbites — and work by harnessing the natural growth of the jaw during key developmental stages.

10. Orthognathic Surgery

Orthognathic surgery is used for severe jaw misalignment that cannot be corrected with braces alone. It is usually combined with orthodontic treatment both before and after surgery to achieve proper function and appearance. Most patients are referred by their orthodontist when other options aren't sufficient.

Not sure where your teeth fall on the scale of complexity? Our IOTN score checker gives you an indication of treatment need, and our find an orthodontist near you tool helps you locate a practice in your area. You can also browse all our locations across the UK.