Dental treatments explained

Fixed braces with tooth-coloured brackets that blend in more than metal, while working in much the same way.

A series of clear, removable plastic trays that move teeth in small steps. Best for mild to moderate problems after a proper in-person…

Fixed braces bonded to the inside surfaces of the teeth so they are hidden from view. Discreet, but they take some getting used to.

Brackets glued to each tooth and linked by a wire - the most widely used brace and the standard NHS option for eligible under-18s.

Removable or fixed appliances that hold teeth in their new positions after braces or aligners. Essential in almost every case, usually…

A fixed false tooth held in place by the teeth next to the gap. Conventional and minimal-drilling resin-bonded bridges compared.

A custom-made cap that covers a weakened, broken or root-treated tooth to restore its strength, shape and appearance. An NHS Band 3 item.

A titanium post placed in the jawbone to act as an artificial root for a crown, bridge or denture. Fixed and long-lasting, but usually…

Removable false teeth that replace some or all missing teeth. Plastic, metal and flexible types, NHS availability and how to care for them.

Repairing a hole or damaged area of a tooth with white composite or silver amalgam. The most common restorative treatment - and an NHS…

Laboratory-made fillings cemented into or onto a back tooth - stronger and longer-lasting than a normal filling, while keeping more tooth…

Removing infection from inside a tooth, then cleaning and sealing it so it can be kept. Should feel similar to having a filling.

Tooth-coloured composite resin added directly to teeth to repair chips and cracks or rebuild worn teeth, usually with little or no drilling.

Lightening natural teeth with a peroxide gel, legally only by or on the prescription of a dentist. Home-tray and in-surgery options…

Thin porcelain or composite facings bonded to the front of teeth to change their colour, shape or size. Effective, but a long-term…

Professional fluoride varnish, prescription-strength toothpaste and protective sealants for back teeth - simple ways to prevent and even…

Treating gingivitis and periodontitis with better home cleaning, professional cleaning above and below the gums and, occasionally, surgery.

A custom-made guard worn at night to protect teeth from grinding and clenching, and to ease strain on the jaw.

A professional clean by a hygienist or therapist to remove hardened plaque (tartar) and surface stains. Free on the NHS only when…

A cushioning guard worn over the teeth for contact sports. Custom-made guards from a dentist offer the best fit and protection.

Removing a tooth that cannot be saved or is causing problems. What happens, NHS costs, and how to look after the socket afterwards.

Removing one or more wisdom teeth that are causing problems. Usually quick under local anaesthetic, with a couple of weeks of recovery.

Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and cleaning between your teeth - the evidence-based routine that prevents most decay and…