Adult Orthodontics
Straighten your teeth in stealth mode with “invisible” orthodontics designed for convenience. Enjoy the benefits of improved oral hygiene and a confident smile at the best price.
Why adults get orthodontics
Teeth straightening isn’t just for teens. Adults make up one in three of all orthodontic patients in the UK. But because adult jawbones have already finished growing and most adults already have some kind of dental work done, orthodontics have a different clinical approach compared to teenagers. Adult teeth are managed with a “periodontal-first” mindset to protect your jawbone and gum health.
- Clear aligners and lingual (hidden) braces are the most popular choices for adults
- Average treatment duration for cosmetic alignment is 4-6 months, 9-12 months for more complex bite correction
- Clinical focus manages tooth movement alongside existing crowns and fillings
- 98% success rate when managed by a GDC-registered specialist
Benefits of adult orthodontics
Feeling confident in your smile is the biggest motivator, but adult orthodontics can also improve your oral hygiene. Straight teeth make brushing and flossing easier (reducing the risk of gum disease), as well as aligning your bite to lower the risk of chronic jaw pain.
Adult orthodontics don’t have to compromise on results to be invisible. You can straighten your teeth and continue living your daily life, without anyone even knowing.
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Clear aligners are removable, transparent trays that make teeth straightening undetectable
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Lingual braces are fixed to the back of your teeth and completely out of sight
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Ceramic braces have clear brackets and frosted wires that blend in with your teeth
Teens vs adult orthodontics
Adult teeth, like adult personalities, are often more set in their ways than that of teenagers. That’s why an orthodontist needs to ensure any tooth movement doesn’t create problems, such as root resorption (when your roots shorten to the point of making your tooth loose).
| Teen orthodontics | Adult orthodontics | |
|---|---|---|
| Jaw growth | Active, can be guided | Finished, requires mechanical movement |
| Gum health | Usually healthy | Needs monitoring for gum disease, receding gums etc |
| Previous work | Rare | Common (implants, crowns, fillings, bridges) |
| Social focus | Durability and speed | Invisibility and convenience |
| Discover now | Discover now |
How much do adult orthodontics cost?
| Ceramic Braces Moderate | Ceramic Braces Complex |
|---|---|
| £60 per month* or £2,500 paid up front |
from £76 per month* or £3,500 paid up front |
Single Arch
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Dual Arch
|
| Book consultation | Book consultation |
How do I get adult orthodontics?
- Clinical assessment: Before moving a single tooth, we’ll assess your dental health, making sure your jawbones are strong enough for movement.
- Smile simulation: Get a 3D scan and X-ray to digitally map out your mouth and predict your future smile that you can see in real-time.
- Controlled movement: Adult treatments apply light, constant pressure to safely move teeth within the boundaries of your biological limits (based on your jaw health).
- Lasting retention: Adult teeth have a high relapse memory, making retainers (fixed or removable) essential for maintaining your straight smile for a lifetime.
Where can I find an orthodontist near me?
Find your closest Smile White partnered orthodontist at a dental practice near you.
Clear answers to your questions
How long is your waiting list?
We have free online consultations available Monday to Saturday, no waiting list required.
Am I too old for braces?
There’s no age limit for getting braces as long as your teeth and gums are healthy. We regularly treat people in their 50s, 60s and 70s. As they say, "age is just a number".
How much do adult braces cost in the UK?
Transparent “invisible” orthodontics like clear aligners, ceramic braces and lingual braces are categorised as cosmetic treatments, and aren’t available on the NHS. Private adult orthodontic treatments typically start from £1,895 for mild cases (closing small gaps) and can reach over £4,895 for complex lingual braces. Luckily, we offer 0% flexible finance options to help spread the cost. We are a lender not a broker. Book a free online consultation to find out more.
Can I get braces if I have missing teeth?
Yes. Orthodontics can often be used to create the right amount of space needed for a future dental implant or close gaps made by past tooth extractions.
Can you get orthodontic treatment as an adult?
Yes, you can get orthodontic treatments as an adult in the UK. There’s really no upper age limit for getting braces or clear aligners, just healthy gums and jawbone structure. A lot of adults opt for clear aligners, ceramic braces and lingual braces over traditional metal braces as they’re much more undetectable – perfect for daily adult life.
Does cold water help braces pain?
Yes! Cold water or icy drinks are very effective at helping relieve pain or discomfort from braces. Think of cold water as an ice pack for your teeth and gums: reducing inflammation, numbing the area and providing instant temporary relief. Sip ice cold water and swish around your mouth for a few seconds to soothe pain, and repeat. You can also gently massage your gums with an ice cube for extra numbing. Do not chew the ice – this damages your wires and brackets!
Is it worth getting braces as an adult?
If you want a straight smile, then yes, absolutely it’s worth getting braces as an adult. Straight teeth are easier to clean (reducing the risk of decay and gum disease) and with a corrected bite alignment, can reduce jaw pain and headaches. Aside from the health benefits, patients often say how much more confident they feel, how they can finally smile without feeling self-conscious and that the results can be “life-changing”. If you’re considering straightening your teeth but don’t want the visible appearance of metal braces, explore invisible options; ceramic braces, lingual braces and clear aligners.
Does an overbite affect your posture?
Yes, a significant overbite can affect your posture as it can force your jaw to hold a position that pulls your head forward, straining the neck (cervical spine). Your jaw and neck are connected, so a misaligned jaw creates an imbalance that can lead to chronic neck and shoulder tension. Prolonged, your body eventually compensates and can cause uneven weight distribution and postural issues, including a double chin appearance.
