Teeth Straightening Fact Sheet

The objective

Teeth straightening - or orthodontic treatment - is a way of straightening or moving teeth through use of a brace, to improve their appearance and function. It can also help to look after the long-term health of the teeth, gums and jaw joints, by spreading the biting pressure throughout the mouth.

The procedure

The procedure will involve dentist appointments over many months or even years, which may last from 10-30 minutes each in the initial stages.

Initially, there will be a full examination of the teeth and mouth. This will involve making impressions of the teeth and x-rays before appliances (known as ‘braces’) are fitted according to the required form of treatment. Braces are usually made of metal wire and brackets but there are also new ‘invisible’ models called aligners available. It may be necessary to take out some permanent teeth if you do not have enough room for the teeth to move, though sometimes space can be created using other forms of treatment. After the brace is fitted, you will be instructed on how to take care of it, how often to use (if it is an aligner or ‘retainer’) and will need regular follow-up appointments to check progress.

After the teeth have moved to a certain degree, you may only need to wear a ‘retainer’ (which stops teeth moving back to their original position) for a while, until the dentist is sure the movement won’t reverse.

The outcome

Following the procedure, your teeth and jaw may ache for a few days as they adjust to the pressure of the brace. You may have difficulty speaking for one or two days until you become used to the appliance.

The teeth should gradually move to become straighter and more aligned over a period of time - which may be many months or years. The effects should normally be permanent if the brace was used properly. It is unusual for the teeth to move afterwards.

The risks

There are few risks associated with teeth straightening treatment but your teeth can be damaged if they are not properly looked after during treatment.

This can happen through poor cleaning and consuming sugary drinks and snacks, as brackets, wires and braces can trap food and cause more plaque than usual to build up.

The costs

Privately in the UK, expect to pay from around £460-£4,000 (invisible braces can cost up to three times more). Treatment is available under the NHS as long as there is a clinical need, normally for children.

The availability

Teeth straightening is a widely-practised procedure available at orthodontists both privately and under the NHS.

The popularity

Teeth straightening is most commonly used with children who have ‘buck’ teeth or a poor ‘bite’ due to crowded or crooked teeth, which may cause them problems in later life. When the teeth don’t meet correctly, this can put strain on the muscles of the jaw, causing jaw and joint problems and in some cases headaches. Orthodontic treatment can help to bite more evenly and reduce the strain. Some adults also have treatment.