What are braces?
Braces are a fixed orthodontic appliance made up of small brackets bonded to the front of each tooth, connected by a thin archwire. The wire exerts gentle, continuous pressure on the teeth, guiding them into better alignment and correcting bite relationships over time.
Unlike clear aligners, braces are fixed in place for the duration of treatment — you can’t remove them. This means they work around the clock without any compliance requirement, and they give orthodontists a high degree of control over tooth movement.
Braces have been used in orthodontics for decades and remain the treatment of choice for cases involving significant crowding, rotations, bite corrections, and extractions. Modern braces are smaller and more comfortable than older systems — and some types are designed to be far less visible than traditional metal brackets.
Types of braces available in the UK
There are several types of braces used by orthodontists in the UK, each with different aesthetics and applications.
Metal braces — the most common type. Stainless steel brackets and wire. Highly effective, durable, and usually the most affordable option.
Ceramic braces — tooth-coloured or clear brackets that blend with the teeth. Less visible than metal but slightly more fragile.
Self-ligating braces — a modern design that uses a built-in clip mechanism instead of elastic bands to hold the wire, which can reduce friction and the number of adjustments needed.
Lingual braces — fixed to the back (inner) surface of the teeth, making them almost invisible from the front. Requires specialist fitting.
The type of braces recommended will depend on your case, your preference for aesthetics, and the clinical judgement of your orthodontist. A photo assessment is a useful starting point to understand which treatment options are likely to suit your situation.
How do braces work?
Braces work by applying steady, controlled pressure to teeth through the wire connected to each bracket. As the wire tries to return to its original shape, it exerts force on the teeth, gradually moving them in the planned direction.
The process involves the bone and tissue around each tooth — as pressure is applied, the bone on the pressure side begins to resorb slightly, and new bone forms on the tension side. This is the same biological process that allows all orthodontic movement, and it means treatment cannot be rushed without risking root damage.
You’ll attend adjustment appointments approximately every six to eight weeks throughout treatment. At each appointment, the orthodontist tightens or changes the wire to keep the planned movement on track. It’s normal to feel some pressure and mild soreness for a day or two after adjustments.
What problems can braces treat?
Braces are one of the most versatile orthodontic treatments available and can address a wide range of issues:
Crowded teeth — not enough space in the arch for teeth to sit properly. Braces can work alongside extractions if space is needed.
Rotations — teeth that have turned out of position. Braces offer precise control over rotational movement.
Overbite — upper front teeth overlapping the lower teeth excessively. Braces can reduce the overbite as part of treatment.
Underbite — lower teeth protruding beyond the upper front teeth. Depends on severity; surgical orthodontics may also be considered for significant cases.
Crossbite — upper teeth biting inside lower teeth on one or both sides.
Open bite — front teeth not meeting when biting together.
Spacing — gaps between teeth that need closing, including after extractions.
How long do braces take?
Treatment length varies depending on the complexity of your case. Simpler alignment issues may be resolved in around 12 months. Cases involving significant bite correction, extractions, or complex tooth movements can take 18 to 30 months or longer.
Because braces are fixed, compliance isn’t a variable in the same way it is with aligners — the treatment progresses consistently as long as you attend adjustment appointments and look after the appliance.
How much do braces cost in the UK?
Private braces costs in the UK depend on the type of braces, the complexity of the case, the clinic, and what’s included in the package. Metal braces tend to be at the lower end of the private cost range, while ceramic and lingual braces are typically more expensive.
NHS braces may be available for patients under 18 with a clinical need, assessed using the IOTN (Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need) score. Adults are not normally eligible for NHS orthodontic treatment unless there are exceptional clinical circumstances.
Benefits and trade-offs
Benefits
Excellent for complex bite corrections
Precise control over rotations and movement
No compliance requirement — fixed 24/7
Suitable for most cases, including complex ones
Generally well-established clinically
Trade-offs
More visible than aligners (unless ceramic/lingual)
Requires careful cleaning around brackets
Some foods to avoid (sticky, hard foods)
Mild soreness after adjustment appointments
What happens after braces come off?
Once braces are removed, your teeth will be polished and retainers will be provided. Retention is essential — without retainers, teeth will gradually drift back over time. Most orthodontists recommend wearing removable retainers nightly long-term, or fixed retainers bonded behind the front teeth.
Retainers are the last — and arguably most important — step in orthodontic treatment. Skipping them is the most common reason people see their teeth shift back after treatment.
Frequently asked questions
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