Adult braces in the UK typically cost between £1,500 and £5,500, depending on the type of braces, the severity of misalignment and the duration of treatment. At Pure Smiles in Fulham, we offer several orthodontic options at competitive prices and provide consultations to help you choose the right treatment for your budget and goals.
Adult braces are not available free on the NHS (free NHS braces are only available to under-18s when clinically necessary). They are a private treatment, but the investment delivers both aesthetic and health benefits — straighter teeth are easier to clean, reducing your long-term risk of decay and gum disease.
The cost of braces depends primarily on the type you choose. Here is a comparison of the main options available at Pure Smiles and across the UK.
| Type of Braces | Typical UK Cost | Visibility | Removable? | Treatment Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Metal fixed braces | £1,500 – £3,000 | Visible (metal brackets and wires) | No | 12-24 months |
| Ceramic fixed braces | £2,000 – £3,500 | Less visible (tooth-coloured brackets) | No | 12-24 months |
| Invisalign clear aligners | £2,500 – £5,500 | Nearly invisible | Yes | 6-18 months |
| Lingual braces (behind teeth) | £3,000 – £6,000+ | Hidden behind teeth | No | 12-24 months |
| Direct-to-consumer aligners | £1,000 – £1,500 | Nearly invisible | Yes | 3-9 months |
| Factor | Impact on Price |
|---|---|
| Severity of misalignment | More complex cases require longer treatment and cost more |
| Type of braces chosen | Invisalign and lingual braces cost more than metal |
| Treatment duration | Longer treatment means more appointments and aligner sets |
| Location of practice | London practices typically charge more than elsewhere in the UK |
| Additional treatments needed | Extractions, attachments or refinements add to the total |
Pure Smiles offers flexible payment plans to help spread the cost of treatment. We provide a full written quotation at your consultation so there are no surprises.
The best braces for you depend on your specific dental situation, lifestyle and budget. Here is guidance on when each option is most suitable.
Invisalign is the most popular choice among adults at Pure Smiles. The clear, removable aligners are virtually invisible, meaning most people will not notice you are wearing them. You can remove them to eat, drink and brush your teeth — maintaining your normal oral hygiene routine throughout treatment.
Invisalign is best for mild to moderate misalignment, including crowded teeth, spacing issues and mild bite problems. learn more
Metal braces remain the most effective option for complex orthodontic cases. They provide precise control over tooth movement and can treat severe misalignment that Invisalign cannot. They are also the most affordable option in most cases.
Ceramic braces work the same way as metal braces but use tooth-coloured brackets that blend with your teeth. They are less visible than metal braces while still offering strong control over tooth movement.
Direct-to-consumer aligner brands are cheaper because they bypass the dentist. However, this comes with significant risks:
At Pure Smiles, every orthodontic patient receives a thorough clinical examination, digital scanning for precise aligner fabrication, and regular in-person check-ups throughout treatment. Your results and safety are professionally managed from start to finish.
1. Consultation — We examine your teeth, take digital scans and discuss your options and costs
2. Treatment plan — You receive a detailed plan showing projected results and total cost
3. Fitting or first aligners — Braces are fitted, or your first set of Invisalign aligners is provided
4. Regular adjustments — You attend check-ups every 4-8 weeks to monitor progress
5. Completion — Braces are removed or final aligners completed
6. Retention — Retainers are fitted to maintain your results long-term
Digital scanning at Pure Smiles means no uncomfortable putty impressions. Every few weeks during Invisalign treatment, you switch to a new set of aligners that progressively moves your teeth into the desired position.
Pure Smiles is a family-run dental practice established in 2009, with two locations in Fulham — 257 New Kings Road, SW6 4RB and 750a Fulham Road, SW6 5SH. Dr Ayzaaz Akram (BDS Liverpool 1995, GDC 70996) and our team provide expert orthodontic care for adults across SW6 and the surrounding areas.
Call 020 7736 6276 to book your consultation and receive a personalised treatment plan with clear pricing. learn more
Yes. Straighter teeth are easier to clean, which reduces your risk of tooth decay and gum disease over time. Many adults also experience a significant boost in confidence after treatment. The health and aesthetic benefits of braces typically last a lifetime when combined with proper retention.
Treatment duration depends on the severity of your misalignment and the type of braces. Invisalign typically takes 6 to 18 months for adults. Metal and ceramic braces usually take 12 to 24 months. Your dentist will provide an estimated timeline at your consultation.
NHS orthodontic treatment for adults is only available in exceptional circumstances, such as cases requiring jaw surgery. In the vast majority of cases, adult braces are a private treatment. Pure Smiles offers flexible payment plans to help make treatment accessible.
You may experience some discomfort for the first few days after braces are fitted or after switching to a new Invisalign aligner set. This is normal and usually manageable with over-the-counter painkillers. The discomfort settles quickly as your teeth adjust. At Pure Smiles, we use a slow dentistry approach and ensure you are comfortable at every appointment.
