When it comes to teeth-straightening in the UK, most people's first question is: How much are braces in UK for under 18s? The price could vary depending on age, type of treatment being undertaken, and whether or not NHS or private care is being sought. In this guide, we shall discuss the cost of braces for teenagers versus adults in the UK, eligibility for free braces for under 18s in the UK, and the real price of adult braces in the UK under the NHS or private schemes.
For many families in the UK, the ideal outcome is getting free braces for children under 18 through the NHS. The NHS offers orthodontic treatment to kids under 18, but only when there’s a clear medical need.
Eligibility is assessed using the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN). Teens must score a Grade 4 or 5, which means they have significant alignment or bite problems, to be approved.
Tip: If your teen doesn’t meet the criteria or you prefer not to wait, private treatment is an option.
If your child isn’t eligible through the NHS, or if you want faster service or cosmetic options like clear or ceramic braces, private care may be a better fit.
Braces Cost for Teenagers in UK (Private Clinics):
| Type of Braces | Estimated Cost (Private) |
| Metal Braces | £1,600 – £4,000 |
| Ceramic Braces | £2,000 – £5,000 |
| Lingual Braces | £5,000 – £7,000 |
| Clear Aligners (Clear Braces) | £1,800 – £5,500 |
These prices can vary depending on the complexity of the case, how long treatment takes, and location. Clinics in London usually charge more.
After turning 18, the NHS rarely covers orthodontic treatment unless there’s a serious medical condition. That means adults typically need to go the private route for braces in the UK.
Braces for Adults UK Price (Private Care):
| Type of Braces | Estimated Cost |
| Traditional Metal Braces | £1,500 - £3,000 |
| Ceramic Braces | £2,000 - £6,000 |
| Lingual Braces | £2,000 - £10,000 |
| Clear Aligners (Clear Braces) | £3,500 - £5,500 |
Important Note: Adults tend to pay more because treatment often takes longer, bone structure is denser, and there’s more demand for aesthetic options.
| Feature | Teens (Under 18) | Adults (18+) |
| NHS Availability | Yes (if needed) | Rarely available |
| NHS Cost | Free | Not usually covered |
| Private Metal Braces | £1,600 – £4,000 | £1,500 - £3,000 |
| Private Clear Braces | £1,800 – £5,500 | £3,500 - £5,500 |
| Private Ceramic Braces | £2,000 – £5,000 | £2,000 - £6,000 |
| Private Ligual Braces | £5,000 – £7,000 | £2,000 - £10,000 |
Yes. More adults in the UK are choosing braces now than ever before. Even though the cost might seem high, the benefits, like better dental health, improved appearance, and more confidence, make it a valuable investment.
Caspersmile clear aligners offer a modern, discreet way to straighten teeth without the hassle of traditional metal braces. Designed for comfort and convenience, these custom-fit, removable aligners gradually shift your teeth into alignment, all while being nearly invisible. Ideal for teens and adults, Caspersmile provides an affordable at-home treatment option, supported by expert orthodontists every step of the way.
Now you know how much braces cost for under-18s in the UK and what adult options look like. Whether you’re checking out NHS eligibility, comparing private brace prices, or planning adult treatment, your smile is worth every penny.
Curated the best for your knowledge
.webp)
How Much Does It Cost to Correct an Underbite?An underbite is a malocclusion in which the lower teeth rest in front of the upper teeth. It is a cosmetic matter, usually. However, when the misalignment gets severe, it causes difficulties with chewing, speech, and even breathing. And it does more than that. It also produces chronic jaw pain, tooth decay, and gum disease. Now, people with this condition are often concerned about the cost of an underbite fix. And as the treatments for an underbite vary, so do the costs. So, to help you figure out, here’s a detailed breakdown of the costs of an underbite fix.
Read More
What’s Different in Braces and Invisible Braces?When it comes to straightening teeth, the debate of braces vs invisible braces is one almost everyone faces. Both options improve your smile and dental health, but the way they work, feel, and look can be very different. If you’re unsure whether to choose metal braces, clear braces (ceramic braces), or invisible aligners like Caspersmile, this guide will help you understand the pros, cons, and key differences.
Read More
Cost of Lingual Braces in the UKWhen it comes to lingual braces, the first thing people will see is the price, and if you’ve ever Googled “how much are lingual braces in the UK?” you’ll know that they sit at the premium end of orthodontics. But why? And more importantly, are they worth it? This brings up some good questions, like what causes them to be more expensive? Why are they considered premium? Are they really as hidden as they claim to be? In this guide, we will look at as much as we can about the average costs of lingual braces in the UK and the reasons they have a premium, custom fittings, and a specialist orthodontic skill set. We will discuss the benefits of lingual braces, their aesthetic advantages, and how effective they can be for various dental issues, along with some of the pitfalls, such as discomfort and adjustment time. We will also help you identify who the best candidates are for them and compare them to clear aligners, so you have as much information as you need to make an informed decision.
Read More
Heading