--- title: "Orthodontic Treatments UK | Braces & Clear Aligners" url: https://virtualconsultant.online/treatments description: "Compare UK orthodontic treatment options including braces, clear aligners, retainers, emergency orthodontics, and online photo assessment." updated: 2026-09-29T00:00:00Z publisher: Virtual Consultant Online --- # Orthodontic Treatments The main orthodontic treatments in the UK are fixed braces (metal, ceramic or lingual), clear aligners such as Invisalign, and retainers to hold the result. Most courses take 6 to 24 months, depending on how far the teeth need to move and whether the bite needs correcting. Not sure what you need yet? Start with the basics below, or take a photo assessment to get direction based on your smile. [Start Photo Assessment](https://virtualconsultant.online/evaluations/quote) [Compare Options](https://virtualconsultant.online/compare) [Support Hub](https://virtualconsultant.online/support) ## Quick guide Most adult treatments fall into two main options: [clear aligners](https://virtualconsultant.online/treatments/clear-aligners) or [braces](https://virtualconsultant.online/treatments/braces). The right fit depends on what you want to change — alignment, bite, gaps, crowding — and how predictable the movement needs to be. If you're researching [teeth straightening in the UK](https://virtualconsultant.online/treatments/teeth-straightening) or starting from a [specific problem](https://virtualconsultant.online/problems), use the section below to connect it to likely options. Clear aligners Discreet, removable trays that gradually move teeth. Often ideal for mild-to-moderate alignment concerns. [View clear aligners](https://virtualconsultant.online/treatments/clear-aligners) [Clear Aligners Near Me](https://virtualconsultant.online/treatments/clear-aligners-near-me) [Adult Clear Aligners Near Me](https://virtualconsultant.online/locations/adult-orthodontist-near-me) [Clear Aligners Cost](https://virtualconsultant.online/costs/clear-aligners-cost) Braces Fixed braces are highly effective for rotations, complex movement, and many bite-related problems. [View braces](https://virtualconsultant.online/treatments/braces) [Braces Near Me](https://virtualconsultant.online/treatments/braces-near-me) [Adult Braces Near Me](https://virtualconsultant.online/locations/adult-orthodontist-near-me) [Braces Cost](https://virtualconsultant.online/costs/braces-cost) ## Choose a starting point If you’re browsing because of a specific concern, these pages help you connect the “problem” to likely treatment options. Crowded teeth When there isn’t enough space and teeth overlap. [Crowded teeth options](https://virtualconsultant.online/problems/crowded-teeth) Crooked teeth Teeth out of line, rotated or uneven. [Crooked teeth options](https://virtualconsultant.online/problems/crooked-teeth) Overbite Upper teeth sit too far over the lower teeth. [Overbite options](https://virtualconsultant.online/problems/overbite) Gaps Spacing between teeth in one area or across the smile. [Gaps options](https://virtualconsultant.online/problems/gaps-in-teeth) Crossbite Upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth. [Crossbite options](https://virtualconsultant.online/problems/crossbite) Teeth sticking out Front teeth appear prominent, often linked to bite. [Teeth sticking out options](https://virtualconsultant.online/problems/teeth-sticking-out) Open bite Front teeth don’t meet when you bite. [Open bite options](https://virtualconsultant.online/problems/open-bite) Relapse after braces Teeth moved after previous orthodontics. [Relapse after braces options](https://virtualconsultant.online/problems/relapse-after-braces) Clear aligner not fitting An aligner will not seat, feels loose, or teeth are not tracking. [Clear aligner not fitting options](https://virtualconsultant.online/problems/clear-aligner-not-fitting) Emergency orthodontist near me Broken braces, wires, retainers, pain, or trauma needing advice. [Emergency orthodontist near me options](https://virtualconsultant.online/treatments/emergency-orthodontist-near-me) Retainers near me Replacement retainers, fixed retainers, repairs, and aftercare checks. [Retainers near me options](https://virtualconsultant.online/treatments/retainers-near-me) --- [Browse all problems](https://virtualconsultant.online/problems) ### What Happens After Your Photo Assessment? The guided photo assessment takes around 5 minutes and helps our clinicians understand your teeth alignment, bite, and spacing. Once submitted, your photos are reviewed and your personalised treatment quote is prepared. Your digital quote explains potential treatment options, expected timelines, and typical next steps so you can decide whether orthodontic treatment is right for you. If you decide to proceed, you can accept the plan online and a treatment coordinator will help arrange your first in-clinic appointment with the orthodontic team. [Start Photo Assessment](https://virtualconsultant.online/evaluations/quote) No Sign-Up Required • Instant Access Upload Photos Quick guided assessment Clinician Review Personalised treatment quote Book Treatment Arrange your first appointment ### Frequently asked questions What orthodontic treatments are available to straighten teeth? Orthodontic treatment options include fixed metal braces, ceramic braces, self-ligating braces, lingual braces (bonded to the back of the teeth), and removable clear aligners such as Invisalign and its alternatives. Each appliance type moves teeth gradually over time but differs in how they look, how they feel, how long they take, and how much they cost. The most suitable option depends on the complexity of the case, the type of tooth movements needed, and patient preferences — which is why a clinical assessment is needed before a treatment type is confirmed. How do I know if I need orthodontic treatment? Common signs that orthodontic treatment may be worth exploring include crowded, overlapping, or rotated teeth; visible gaps between teeth; an overbite, underbite, crossbite, or open bite; difficulty biting or chewing; or teeth that are hard to clean thoroughly. Not all of these issues require treatment — some are purely cosmetic and treatment is optional, while others can affect dental health over time. A clinical assessment or photo review with a qualified clinician is the most reliable way to understand whether treatment is recommended, what it would involve, and what your options are. Can orthodontic treatment be assessed remotely? Initial orthodontic screening can be done using guided photos. A clinician can review visible tooth alignment, crowding, spacing, and bite patterns from submitted photos and provide early guidance on likely treatment categories and indicative costs. However, a remote photo review cannot replace a full clinical examination — it cannot show root positions, bone levels, gum health, or the physical bite relationship. Before any treatment begins, an in-person appointment with scans, X-rays, and a physical examination is required. A photo assessment is best used as a low-effort first step to understand suitability and cost before committing to a clinic visit. How long does orthodontic treatment usually take? Treatment duration depends primarily on the complexity of the tooth movements required, not the appliance type. Mild crowding or spacing may be corrected in 6–12 months. Moderate cases typically take 12–18 months. Complex cases involving significant bite correction or multiple movements can take 18–30 months or more. Clear aligner treatment and fixed braces can achieve similar results for appropriate cases, but the timeline should always be confirmed by a clinician who has reviewed your specific case — estimates without clinical records are indicative only. Is orthodontic treatment only for teenagers? No. Adults account for a significant and growing proportion of orthodontic patients. Treatment in adults is clinically similar to teenage treatment, though there are some differences — adult bone is denser, which can mean slightly slower tooth movement in some cases, and adults are not eligible for NHS orthodontics in England except in exceptional hospital-led cases. Modern treatment options including clear aligners, ceramic braces, and lingual braces are widely chosen by adults who want to straighten their teeth discreetly. There is no upper age limit for orthodontic treatment provided the teeth and gums are healthy. Does orthodontic treatment hurt? Orthodontic appliances apply gentle continuous force to move teeth, which can cause soreness and pressure — particularly in the first few days after fitting or after adjustment appointments. This is usually described as a dull ache rather than sharp pain and typically settles within 3–5 days. Over-the-counter pain relief can help during this period. Lingual braces can also cause tongue soreness and temporary speech changes in the early weeks. Most patients adapt to the sensation of having an appliance and find day-to-day discomfort manageable after the initial adjustment period. How much does orthodontic treatment cost? Private orthodontic treatment in the UK typically costs between £1,500 and £5,500 depending on the appliance type and case complexity. Metal braces are usually at the lower end; lingual braces and comprehensive aligner treatment tend to be at the higher end. NHS treatment is available to eligible children under 18 at no direct cost. When comparing quotes, check what is included — records (scans, X-rays), refinements, retainers, and review appointments should all be factored in. Payment plans are offered by many providers, allowing the cost to be spread over the treatment period. Can orthodontic treatment improve oral health? Yes, in some cases. Straighter teeth are generally easier to clean thoroughly — overlapping or crowded teeth create areas where plaque is harder to remove with a brush or floss, which can increase the risk of decay and gum inflammation. Correcting a significant bite problem can also help reduce uneven wear on teeth and improve how the jaw functions. However, the primary purpose of many orthodontic treatments is cosmetic, and not all cases have a direct clinical oral health benefit — a clinician can advise whether your case is primarily functional, primarily cosmetic, or both. --- Explore [Get Quote](https://virtualconsultant.online/evaluations/quote) [Costs](https://virtualconsultant.online/costs) [Browse Treatments](https://virtualconsultant.online/treatments) [Teeth Straightening](https://virtualconsultant.online/treatments/teeth-straightening) [Browse Problems](https://virtualconsultant.online/problems) [Locations](https://virtualconsultant.online/locations) [Near Me](https://virtualconsultant.online/locations/orthodontic-treatment-near-me) [NHS Eligibility Checker](https://virtualconsultant.online/about/do-i-qualify-for-nhs-treatment) [IOTN Score Checker](https://virtualconsultant.online/about/iotn-score-checker) [How To Take Orthodontic Photos](https://virtualconsultant.online/about/process/how-to-take-orthodontic-photos) [Online Orthodontist](https://virtualconsultant.online/guides/online-orthodontist-uk) [Research Papers](https://virtualconsultant.online/research) [Social Channels](https://virtualconsultant.online/social) #### Find a trusted orthodontist near you. Discover orthodontic clinics near you offering clear aligners and braces, all via remote assessments. Search by city or county and get started from home. Search city or county #### More treatment guides Explore adult, teen, clear aligner, removable appliance, and consultation-led treatment routes. [Adult Teeth Straightening](https://virtualconsultant.online/treatments/adult-teeth-straightening) [Clear Aligners For Adults](https://virtualconsultant.online/treatments/clear-aligners-for-adults) [Braces For Teenagers](https://virtualconsultant.online/treatments/braces-for-teenagers) [Self-Ligating Braces](https://virtualconsultant.online/treatments/self-ligating-braces) [Removable Braces](https://virtualconsultant.online/treatments/removable-braces) [Orthodontic Consultation](https://virtualconsultant.online/treatments/orthodontic-consultation) Explore your options Quick links Not sure where to start? Use these quick links to explore orthodontic treatments, typical costs, and helpful guides that explain what different options involve. Whether you're researching braces or clear aligners, comparing pricing, or just getting a feel for what comes next, you can browse at your own pace and come back when you're ready to request a quote. Explore [Get Quote](https://virtualconsultant.online/evaluations/quote) [Costs](https://virtualconsultant.online/costs) [Browse Treatments](https://virtualconsultant.online/treatments) [Teeth Straightening](https://virtualconsultant.online/treatments/teeth-straightening) [Browse Problems](https://virtualconsultant.online/problems) [Locations](https://virtualconsultant.online/locations) [Near Me](https://virtualconsultant.online/locations/orthodontic-treatment-near-me) [NHS Eligibility Checker](https://virtualconsultant.online/about/do-i-qualify-for-nhs-treatment) [IOTN Score Checker](https://virtualconsultant.online/about/iotn-score-checker) [How To Take Orthodontic Photos](https://virtualconsultant.online/about/process/how-to-take-orthodontic-photos) [Online Orthodontist](https://virtualconsultant.online/guides/online-orthodontist-uk) [Research Papers](https://virtualconsultant.online/research) [Social Channels](https://virtualconsultant.online/social) ## Ready to get your quote? Upload your photos and get clinician-reviewed options for braces or clear aligners. [Start My Free Quote](https://virtualconsultant.online/evaluations/quote) [Find an Orthodontist](https://virtualconsultant.online/locations) Prefer to learn first? Explore [treatments](https://virtualconsultant.online/treatments), [problems](https://virtualconsultant.online/problems), and [costs](https://virtualconsultant.online/costs). Citation details Title Orthodontic Treatments UK | Braces & Clear Aligners Publisher Virtual Consultant Online Published 2022-06-01 Updated 2026-09-29 URL [https://staging.virtualconsultant.online/treatments](https://staging.virtualconsultant.online/treatments)