Can adults get braces in the UK?

Yes. There is no upper age limit for orthodontic treatment. NHS treatment is generally not available to adults, but private treatment is widely accessible. Clear aligners are particularly popular with adults due to their discreet appearance.

Do I need braces if my teeth are only slightly crooked?

Minor crowding or slight misalignment may not require treatment if it does not affect function or cause problems. Whether treatment is worthwhile for aesthetic reasons alone is a personal decision. A clinician can advise on whether your case is suitable for short-term or limited orthodontic options.

Is there a braces eligibility test I can do online?

You can submit photos of your teeth through Virtual Consultant for a clinician-reviewed assessment. This gives you a personalised indication of whether orthodontic treatment is likely appropriate for your case.

What is the youngest age you can get braces?

Fixed braces are typically considered from around age 12–13, once most adult teeth have emerged. Some interceptive treatments may be used earlier in growing children. Your orthodontist will advise on the optimal timing.

Braces Guide

Symptoms

Next Steps

Do You Need Braces?

Orthodontic treatment is recommended when teeth or bite alignment affects function, dental health, or quality of life. This guide explains the signs that suggest you may benefit from braces or clear aligners — and how to find out for certain.

Get a Clinician Assessment View Problems

Signs You Might Need Braces

Common signs include crowded teeth, gaps, overbite, underbite, crossbite, open bite, protruding teeth, jaw pain, or difficulty chewing.

The most reliable way to know is through an assessment by a GDC-registered dentist or orthodontist. An online photo assessment can also give you a useful clinician-reviewed starting point.

Common Reasons People Need Braces

Crowded Teeth

Teeth overlap, rotate, or sit behind one another because there is not enough space in the jaw.

Gaps Between Teeth

Spaces can appear between any teeth and may be caused by missing teeth, jaw size, or a prominent frenum.

Overbite

The upper front teeth cover too much of the lower teeth, sometimes causing wear or discomfort.

Underbite

The lower front teeth sit in front of the upper teeth, which can affect chewing, speech, and jaw function.

Crossbite

Some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth when biting, affecting one or both sides.

Open Bite

The upper and lower teeth do not meet when the jaws are closed, making biting harder.

Overjet

Upper front teeth stick out and may be more vulnerable to injury or affect confidence.

Jaw Pain

Bite misalignment can contribute to jaw discomfort, chewing difficulty, and uneven tooth wear.

What Should You Do Next?

Do You Need Braces for Aesthetic Reasons Only?

Yes — many adults choose orthodontic treatment primarily because they are unhappy with the appearance of their smile, even where there is no significant functional concern.

For minor aesthetic concerns, options such as Invisalign Lite or short-term clear aligners may be appropriate and can complete in as little as 3–6 months.

Can You Get Braces on the NHS as an Adult?

NHS orthodontic treatment is generally only available to children and young people under 18 who meet clinical eligibility criteria using the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need.

Adults are not routinely eligible for NHS braces. You can use our NHS eligibility checker to get an indication of whether you or your child may qualify.

How to Find Out If You Need Braces

The most reliable way is an assessment by a GDC-registered dentist or orthodontist. They will examine your teeth, jaw alignment, and bite.

You can also start with an online photo-based assessment through Virtual Consultant and receive a clinician-reviewed response with likely treatment options and indicative cost.

FAQs

How do I know if I need braces or clear aligners?

Is it too late to get braces as an adult?

What happens if I don't get braces when I need them?

Do I need a referral to get braces in the UK?

Not Sure If You Need Treatment?

Upload photos of your teeth and receive a clinician-reviewed response with your likely options and indicative cost.

Start Your Free Assessment Explore More Guides

Problems We Treat

Crowded teeth, gaps, overbite, underbite and more.

Treatment Options

Compare braces, clear aligners and other orthodontic options.

NHS Eligibility Checker

Find out if you or your child may qualify for NHS orthodontic treatment.

How Long Do Braces Take?

Understand typical treatment times for braces and clear aligners.

Explore your options

Quick links

Not sure where to start? Use these quick links to explore orthodontic treatments, typical costs, and helpful guides that explain what different options involve. Whether you're researching braces or clear aligners, comparing pricing, or just getting a feel for what comes next, you can browse at your own pace and come back when you're ready to request a quote.

Explore

NHS Eligibility Checker

IOTN Score Checker

How To Take Orthodontic Photos

Online Orthodontist

Social Channels

Ready to get your quote?

Upload your photos and get clinician-reviewed options for braces or clear aligners.

Start My Free Quote

Find an Orthodontist

Prefer to learn first? Explore treatments, problems, and costs.

Partnering with leading clinics, Virtual Consultant combines clinical expertise with advanced digital technology — making orthodontic care more efficient, accessible, and rewarding for both teams and patients.