I need braces but can’t afford them: What are the options?

Orthodontic care, especially braces, is often seen as something only a few can afford. But if you truly need orthodontic care for your health, comfort, or confidence, the cost can feel like a wall standing in your way. Here's the encouraging part: braces are more accessible today than ever before. Thanks to new treatment options and flexible financing plans, getting the care you need is possible, even if you're on a tight budget. In this guide, let us help you explore several options to straighten your teeth and how to get braces within your budget.

Braces do more than just straighten smiles

They're not just about looks. Braces can play a big role in your overall health. Here's why straightening your teeth matters:

Easier to clean teeth

When teeth are crowded or crooked, brushing and flossing become tough, which can lead to plaque, cavities, and gum issues.

Better bite alignment

A misaligned bite isn't just uncomfortable—it can lead to jaw pain, headaches, and even speech problems.

Protects your teeth long-term

Ignoring bite issues now could mean enamel erosion, uneven wear, cavities, and even tooth loss down the road.

Enhances confidence

There's no denying it—a straight, healthy smile can make a big difference in how you feel about yourself and how you show up in the world.

If money's the reason you've been holding off on getting braces, it's worth thinking about the future. Waiting too long could lead to bigger and more expensive dental problems later on.

I need braces but can't afford them in UK

Here are some of the Affordable orthodontic options in UK that can help you in achieving your dream smile without breaking the bank.

Clear aligners to the rescue

The evolution in the field of orthodontics has introduced clear aligners as one of the affordable orthodontic options in the UK. Aligners have become a preferred treatment choice for their discreet features and affordability. You can get your teeth perfectly aligned with clear aligners at a fraction of the cost of traditional braces. Additionally, you can straighten without getting noticed and remove your aligners to continue your daily eating patterns or oral hygiene.

Can I get free braces through the NHS?

If you're under 18, living in the UK, and wondering how much are braces in the UK for under 18s, there's good news. You might be eligible for free orthodontic treatment through the NHS. But it's not guaranteed for everyone. Here's how it works.

First, your general dentist will need to evaluate your teeth. If they believe you need orthodontic care, they'll refer you to a specialist orthodontist for a detailed assessment. From there, the orthodontist will use a standardised tool called the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN) to determine if your case meets the criteria for NHS-funded braces.

The IOTN is a clinical grading system used across the UK. It helps dental professionals understand how severe your orthodontic issues are. The scale ranges from Grade 1 to Grade 5:

• Grade 1 means your teeth are perfectly fine from a health standpoint—no braces needed.

• Grade 2 suggests you have some minor misalignment, but again, treatment isn't considered necessary.

• Grade 3 falls into a bit of a grey area. Your teeth have visible irregularities, but they may not be serious enough to justify NHS treatment automatically.

• Grade 4 indicates more significant issues, such as crowding or bite problems, that typically qualify for NHS braces.

• Grade 5 reflects the most serious orthodontic conditions—these patients are usually granted treatment without question due to clear health reasons.

If you're rated Grade 4 or 5, you'll be eligible for NHS-funded braces. However, Grades 1 and 2 mean you won't qualify. If you fall under Grade 3, your eligibility will depend on how your teeth look in addition to how they function, so the final decision is partly based on aesthetics. A score of 6-10 on the IOTN aesthetic scale may tip the balance in your favour.

This system helps ensure that NHS resources are prioritised for children who need braces for medical or functional reasons, rather than purely cosmetic ones.

Low-income dental help in UK

Not everyone qualifies for free braces on NHS. However, if you have a low income, the NHS can still help you with the cost through the NHS low-income scheme. The terms and conditions still apply to avail of the scheme. You can apply online or by post. The scheme covers prescription costs, dental costs, healthcare travel costs, and eyecare expenses,etc.

Payment plans for braces in UK

Some clinics and orthodontists offer easy payment plans. They usually partner with different financing companies that help patients get orthodontic treatment without having budget issues. You can check for the options and look for easy financing offering payment plans with zero interest.

Get affordable straightening with Caspersmile

Are you aware that you can get your teeth straightened without the stress of a big payment? Not only that, but a smile transformation that doesn't impact your appearance. With Caspersmile Clear Aligners, get a smile makeover of your dreams without spending hefty amounts. You can choose the treatment plan that best suits your case and lifestyle. We ensure a smooth smile journey without compromising on quality.

Wondering if you are eligible for a Caspersmile Clear Aligner treatment?

Take a simple FREE Smile Assessment to find out!

Am I a candidate?

Why choose Caspersmile in the UK?

Here is why you can opt for Caspersmile Clear Aligners if you are a resident of the UK.

Affordable braces for adults in the UK

You want to get your teeth aligned, however the fear of high prices is not letting you get your dream smile. Aligners, being the perfect alternative to braces, can be the partner in your smile journey. With Caspersmile, enjoy affordable day and night-only plans. Apart from our quality services, our affordable prices make us stand out from our competitors.

How about an affordable teeth straightening with aligners?

Get Caspersmile's All-day plan at just £849 one-time payment.

Shop now

Flexible payment plans

Not just that, Caspersmile offers affordable teeth straightening installment plans. You can get the flexibility of easy monthly payment plans with Partial.ly. Skip the credit check and break down your teeth straightening cost.

How does it work?

Take the initial smile assessment

To begin a clear aligner treatment, you must take a free online assessment to check your eligibility for it. Once our smile experts determine that you are eligible, you may proceed with picking your desired plan.

Create your perfect impressions

On receiving our impressions kit, follow the guidelines to craft your perfect impressions. Our aligners are customized to each individual's dental structure, which is why it is important to create perfect impressions.

Aligner fabrication

On receiving your impressions, a 3D treatment plan will be created. Have a look at the smile projection. Once you review and approve the treatment plan, our experts will create custom-fit aligners accordingly.

Start your smile journey

Once fabricated, your aligners will be delivered to your doorstep. Start wearing your aligners as prescribed to achieve your dream smile in no time. In case of any query, you can reach out to our customer support at any step of the journey.

Affordable orthodontic options, UK

Teeth straightening has become quite common throughout the world. However, not everyone can pay hefty amounts for their dream smile. If you are a resident of the United Kingdom, you might be eligible for a FREE orthodontic treatment by the NHS under certain conditions. Other than that, an at-home clear aligner treatment can be an affordable escape from braces, based on the severity of your case. Several clinics and orthodontists offer easy monthly payment plans for an even more flexible smile transformation.

FAQs

How do you get braces when you can't afford them? +

Aligners are the best alternative to braces that come at a fraction of the cost of braces. Additionally, you can check for flexible financing options.

What is the cheapest option for braces? +

Clear aligners can be an affordable and effective alternative to braces.

How can I get free braces in the UK? +

If you are living in the UK and under the age of 18, you might be eligible for free orthodontic treatment through the NHS. However, it is not guaranteed for everyone; you can check with your orthodontist first.

Is there another option instead of braces? +

Yes, there are several other options for teeth straightening instead of braces. Clear aligners are one of the options other than braces for teeth alignment.

Related Blogs

https://caspersmile.uk/blogs/blog/are-braces-free-in-the-uk

https://caspersmile.uk/blogs/blog/braces-price-guide

https://caspersmile.uk/blogs/blog/how-to-get-braces