Crooked teeth are an embarrassing problem for a great many people. Apart from causing complexes, they also have serious health consequences. The solution may be braces. Until recently associated mainly with children and teenagers, today they are appearing on the teeth of an increasing number of adults. Find out what the indications are and how much you will pay for fixed braces in the UK.

Fixed orthodontic appliance - indications

It would seem that the main and only indication for permanent braces is a clearly visible crooked bite. This is partly true. Backbite, forebite, open bite, deep bite, dental aponeurosis, crowding of teeth - all these are indications for braces.

It is also sometimes the case that the first warning signal and the cause of the visit to the orthodontist is a speech defect, but also jaw pain or even headaches. Other indications could be a family history of malocclusion, crumbling or cracked teeth. In these cases, too, it is recommended to visit the orthodontist. 

What if you ignore the above signals?

Consequences of missing orthodontic treatment

The most obvious consequence is, of course, a visible crooked bite. It has quite a few consequences related to self-esteem, but also self-confidence. People with crooked teeth are reluctant to smile and speak up in new company.

However, there are also other consequences from a health or financial point of view. Firstly, crooked teeth deteriorate more quickly - they are difficult to clean well, which results, for example, in faster development of decay. Not only does this mean more frequent and costly visits to the dentist, but it can also cause unpleasant mouth odour.

Malocclusion can also cause visible facial asymmetry or speech defects. If you want to explore the causes and consequences of a crooked bite we recommend our two articles - "Malocclusion in adults - causes, consequences and treatment" and "Crooked teeth - causes and how to get rid of an embarrassing smile".

And how to avoid such consequences - the answer is to visit an orthodontist and get braces.

Fixed braces in the UK - types and how they work

Fixed braces, as the name suggests, are fitted permanently by the orthodontist. Importantly, only in patients who already have all their permanent teeth. It consists of brackets and rings which the orthodontist tightens during check-ups. This allows the teeth to move where they should.

The cheapest and most visible appliance is metal braces.

Ceramic braces due to the milky white colour of the brackets is much less visible on the teeth. However, it is also more prone to staining, although coloured brackets can also be chosen.

Sapphire braces are even less visible - their brackets are transparent. If, in addition, you choose elastics (ligatures) in a colour similar to that of your teeth, it will be even less visible. This appliance, like the ceramic one, is slightly larger than the metal one.

By far the most costly, but also completely invisible is lingual braces. It is fitted from the inside of the teeth.

You can read more about the types of hearing aids in our post Types of braces in the UK - which to choose?.

Treatment process

Fixed braces exert pressure on the relevant parts of the teeth so that they move accordingly within the bone. Where the tooth was previously located, the bone tissue begins to build up and atrophies in its new position.

Orthodontic treatment takes time and patience on the part of the patient - lasts an average of 2 years. During this time, follow-up appointments are made approximately every 4-6 weeks. Read more about how orthodontic braces work in the article "How do braces work?".

While you have fixed braces, it is important to have proper, increased oral hygiene. It is also a good idea to use preparations and toothbrushes dedicated to teeth with braces.

It is also important to avoid certain foodsFor example, very hard or sticky teeth. You can read about caring for them and braces here: "How do I look after my teeth with braces?".

Fixed braces in the UK - what is the cost?

There is a widespread opinion that orthodontic treatment in Poland pays more. This is not true. When you count the fitting of braces, check-ups every few weeks and airline tickets, you will find that treatment at a clinic in the UK is much more affordable.

For example, the price for metal braces for one arch is £600Ceramic £900. Replacement of wires or rubbers is £60. In addition, in our clinic you can use the treatment in instalments. What is important - for 12 months the interest rate is 0%. Thus, for example, you will pay only £50 per month for metal braces.

Our installment system is 100% secure and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA number 619628).

Are fixed braces the only option?

As well as fixed braces in the UK, there is another option for a simple beautiful smile - and that is veneers. A veneer is a porcelain or composite thin layer that is bonded to our teeth.

With veneers you can change the shape, colour and size of your teeth. However, it is more expensive than fixed braces in the UK. You will pay from around £180 for a single composite veneer. You can read more about veneers in the post "Dental veneers in the UK. Everything you need to know".

If you would like to find out more about the instalment system or braces please visit contact Or for an appointment.