Straightening teeth Q&As
Published by Bupa's health information team, September 2009.
Answers to questions about straightening teeth
This section contains answers to common questions about this topic. Questions have been suggested by health professionals, website feedback and requests via email.
- Can adults have their teeth straightened?
- How much does it cost to have teeth straightening done privately?
- Can I have braces that aren't noticeable?
Can adults have their teeth straightened?
Yes, adults can have orthodontic treatment to correct dental problems such as crooked teeth and overbites. The treatment usually takes between 18 and 24 months to complete but can take longer depending on the sort of problems that need correcting.
Explanation
It's common for adults to have orthodontic treatment to improve the appearance of their teeth, or the way their teeth bite together. Your dentist can advise you on the best treatment for your teeth.
Having orthodontic treatment will depend on the condition and position of your teeth and gums. If you have other dental problems such as gum disease, these must be treated before you have a brace. In adults the jaw bone is no longer growing, so you may need jaw surgery before you have a brace, but this is rare.
Further information
- British Orthodontic Society
020 7353 8680
www.bos.org.uk
Sources
- Braces and orthodontics. Frequently asked questions. American Dental Association. www.ada.org, accessed 8 May 2009
- Frequently asked questions. Orthodontic treatment (braces). British Dental Health Foundation. www.dentalhealth.org.uk, accessed 8 May 2009
- FAQ's on adult orthodontics. British Orthodontic Society. www.bos.org.uk, accessed 8 May 2009
How much does it cost to have teeth straightening done privately?
The cost of orthodontic treatment for adults varies between about £1,500 and £4,000, averaging around £2,500.
Explanation
Fees for private treatment vary depending on the extent of treatment you need and the type of brace used. The cost of treatment will also depend on the experience and training of the orthodontist, and the location of the practice.
If you decide to have private treatment, the orthodontist will assess your teeth, give you an idea of the cost and discuss your options. It's a good idea to talk with your friends and family before having orthodontic treatment, and try to get recommendations from people who have had the same procedure.
Further information
- British Orthodontic Society
020 7353 8680
www.bos.org.uk
Sources
- What will it cost? British Orthodontic Society. www.bos.org.uk, accessed 8 May 2009
- FAQ's for teenagers. British Orthodontic Society. www.bos.org.uk, accessed 8 May 2009
- What is IOTN? British Orthodontic Society. www.bos.org.uk, accessed 8 May 2009
- FAQ's on NHS orthodontics. British Orthodontic Society. www.bos.org.uk, accessed 8 May 2009
Can I have braces that aren't noticeable?
Yes, there are several alternatives to conventional metal braces. Ask your dentist or orthodontist about the best option for you.
Explanation
Ceramic brackets can be used in place of metal ones. These are small brackets that are glued to the teeth and joined together with wire. Ceramic brackets are transparent so are less obvious than metal ones. Although this option is often favoured by adults, the brackets can become discoloured over time and are generally more expensive. The brackets are also difficult to remove after treatment. These problems can make orthodontic treatment with ceramic brackets more expensive.
Lingual brackets are placed on the inside of your teeth next to your tongue and are almost invisible. This type of brace is more expensive than conventional braces because extra time and expertise is needed to fit and manage the brace. Initially you may find this type of treatment more uncomfortable than conventional braces. Although this treatment isn't widely available at the moment, more and more practices are beginning to offer it.
'Invisible' braces are also known as aligners and are removable, see-through, plastic moulds. The treatment involves wearing a series of aligners. Each aligner brings your teeth closer to the desired position and is replaced every two weeks with a new aligner until the treatment is finished. You will need to wear aligners day and night but you can remove them for brushing your teeth, eating and drinking.
This treatment option is very costly and can only be used for teeth needing simple alignment. If you have moderate to severe crowding or need to have any teeth removed, aligners won't be suitable for you.
Further information
- British Orthodontic Society
020 7353 8680
www.bos.org.uk
Sources
- Frequently asked questions. Orthodontic treatment (braces). British Dental Health Foundation. www.dentalhealth.org.uk, accessed 8 May 2009
- Aligners. British Orthodontic Society. www.bos.org.uk, accessed 8 May 2009
- FAQ's on adult orthodontics. British Orthodontic Society. www.bos.org.uk, accessed 8 May 2009
- Lingual orthodontics. British Orthodontic Society. www.bos.org.uk, accessed 8 May 2009
Related topics
This information was published by Bupa's health information team and is based on reputable sources of medical evidence. It has been peer reviewed by Bupa doctors. The content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.
Publication date: September 2009
Rate this page
