The real cost of dental braces for adults in the UK

Are you considering fixed braces, but worried about the price? You’re not alone. Thousands of people across the UK are also searching for more affordable orthodontic braces that straighten their teeth, without the stress of endless-feeling NHS waiting lists.

The truth is, braces don’t have to cost the earth. In this piece, we’ll explain why prices of braces vary and how to get professional orthodontic braces at the best possible price.

How much does it cost for braces in the UK?

When it comes down to it, we all just want clear answers on how expensive braces are and what the cheapest types of braces are.

On average, here are the types of braces and their costs:

Metal braces: £1,500 – £3,000
Clear braces: £1,500 – £4,000
Ceramic braces: £2,000 – £4,500
Lingual braces: £3,000 – £6,000

What are the different types of braces?

Metal braces are your traditional “traintrack” braces. They’re considered the most noticeable of all the braces because of their metal wires and brackets. The plus side, you can choose your bracket colours! And this is the option given by the NHS.

Clear braces, invisible aligners, clear aligners; they’re removable trays attached with composite “dots” that need to be worn for 20 to 22 hours per day. This is quite possibly the most popular option for people looking to straighten their teeth. They’re undetectable, comfortable and the most affordable.

Ceramic braces are fixed, tooth-coloured ceramic brackets and wires that are undetectable, but some wearers say they’re uncomfortable on a daily basis – especially on the inside of their cheeks.

Lingual braces are practically invisible metal wire-and-bracket braces that are attached to the back of the teeth, rather than the front. These require specialist equipment, custom manufacturing and a much longer fitting process compared to other braces.

Why do the price of braces vary so much in the UK?

If you’ve done your research, you might’ve noticed some private clinics advertising braces prices in the UK for as little as £1,500, while others are charging well over £5,000. So, what gives?

The main factors come down to the types of braces on offer (traditional metal, ceramic, lingual), the treatment complexity (mild, moderate, complex) and the orthodontist's expertise, which all impact the overall UK braces cost.

Highly experienced orthodontists will often charge more for their dental services and be able to correct more complex teeth crowding and bite issues.

For many, NHS dental braces feel like the most affordable option. Which is often true! The NHS does offer dental braces for teens under 18 free of charge. But here’s the catch; adults aren’t usually eligible unless braces are medically necessary. This is when most adults look at private orthodontists.

NHS braces vs private practice, what’s the real difference?

Teens who qualify are often left on waiting lists for one, even two, years before they start. For adults, it’s even tougher. Braces on the NHS for adults are rarely available unless there’s a significant medical need and impact on their quality of life. And for anyone wanting a straighter smile for aesthetic reasons, NHS braces for free just aren’t an option.

The flexibility of private treatments

Private care allows you to start quickly, choose the style of braces you actually want and receive a comprehensive, tailored treatment plan.

At Smile White, we offer professional orthodontic braces at an affordable price. This means accessible care for more people across the UK, without the waiting lists.

We’re busting the myths about the cost of braces

One of the biggest misconceptions is that, the more you pay, the better the results will be. Which can go for anything in life, but when it comes to orthodontics, this isn’t always true.

We pride ourselves on not only providing professional, personalised care, but at the best and most competitive price compared to other private clinics. You won’t be rushed and you’ll know exactly what you’re paying for when you choose Smile White.

Here’s what sets us apart when it comes to the cost of braces in the UK:

Transparent prices: No hidden extras or surprise fees
Flexible finance: Easy monthly plans designed around real budgets
Professional care: All treatment is delivered by qualified orthodontists
No waiting lists: You can start treatment as soon as you’re ready

So if you’re searching for the cheapest way to get braces in the UK at the best possible price, without compromising on expertise, try Smile White.

Getting braces shouldn’t feel overwhelming or unaffordable. By combining professional orthodontic expertise at reasonable prices (and no waiting lists), we make straighter, healthier smiles available to people across the UK. At Smile White, the price of braces UK patients pay finally feels fair.

To get started, you can book a free online discovery call for all the information on braces you’d ever need.