Who Is Eligible for NHS Braces?
The NHS offers treatment with fixed metallic braces only for children and teenagers under the age of 18, as long as they meet specific criteria. Whilst this may sound like a great way for your child to receive important orthodontic treatment, in reality, only a relatively small number of people are actually eligible for free braces through the NHS. This also results in very long waiting lists (often up to 24 months) for NHS treatment.
However, this should not deter your child from receiving orthodontic treatment, since private clinics offer a range of effective treatment methods; from ceramic fixed braces to Invisalign aligners. Whilst going private does mean that braces won’t be free, there are straightforward and affordable payment plans available to cover the costs. This article will explore who’s eligible for NHS-funded braces and what your alternatives are if your child doesn’t qualify through the strict needs assessment!
What Is the Criteria for NHS Braces?
To be eligible for NHS-funded braces, you must be under the age of 18. They are not usually available to adults.
However, you must also qualify through the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Needs (IOTN), which helps prioritise patients based on the severity of their dental irregularities. The IOTN consists of two main components: the Dental Health Component (DHC) and the Aesthetic Component (AC).
Children and teens typically qualify for free NHS braces if they have a DHC score of 4 or 5 with the corresponding AC score.
Dental Health Component (DHC)
This component assesses the severity of malocclusion (misalignment of teeth) based on clinical indicators. It is divided into five grades, ranked from 1 (no need for treatment) to 5 (greatest need for treatment).
- Grade 1 (No Need for Treatment): Almost perfect alignment with no significant issues.
- Grade 2 (Little Need for Treatment): Minor irregularities, such as slightly crooked teeth or small gaps.
- Grade 3 (Borderline Need for Treatment): More noticeable issues, including mild crowding, increased overjet (protrusion of upper front teeth), or mild crossbite.
- Grade 4 (Definite Need for Treatment): Severe dental health issues such as significant crowding, deep bites, open bites, and large overjets (which protrude more than 6mm).
- Grade 5 (Extreme Need for Treatment): The most severe cases, such as extensive crowding preventing normal tooth function or overjets greater than 9mm, and facial anomalies such as cleft lip and palate.
Aesthetic Component (AC)
The aesthetic component is based on a 10-point scale, using a series of photographs showing different levels of “dental attractiveness”. Patients are assigned a score from 1 (least noticeable irregularity) to 10 (most severe irregularity).
- Scores 1-4: No or minor aesthetic need for treatment.
- Scores 5-7: Moderate aesthetic need for treatment.
- Scores 8-10: Definite need for treatment due to poor dental appearance.
However, even if your child qualifies through the age and IOTN criteria, this does not mean they are guaranteed to receive NHS-funded orthodontic treatment. This is due to the current long waiting list times, which have been a problem for many patients following the COVID-19 pandemic. If your child turns 18 whilst on the waiting list, they are no longer eligible for NHS braces.
How Can You Apply for NHS Braces?
To apply for NHS braces, visit a general dentist who will assess your teeth and refer you to an NHS orthodontist if needed. The orthodontist will assess your case using the IOTN, and, if eligible, provide you with a treatment plan.
What Alternatives to NHS Braces Are There?
If you are not eligible for NHS-funded braces or you just want to avoid lengthy waiting lists, there are many options available through a private orthodontist. As well as being available to anyone who wants treatment, private orthodontists offer more than just fixed metallic braces, meaning you can choose something more subtle. These include:
Many private orthodontic clinics offer flexible repayment options to make the process more affordable and accessible. For example, you may be able to pay through regular instalments, interest-free finance, or interest-bearing finance.
There are several benefits to using a private orthodontist over NHS-funded braces, including:
- No waiting times with quicker appointment availability.
- Wider range of treatment options, especially ideal for those who are self-conscious.
- Open to all ages, regardless of the severity of orthodontic issues.
- Flexible and more frequent appointments to suit your needs.
- More personalised care with advanced technology and treatment plans.
How Much Do Private Braces Cost?
Across private orthodontic clinics, fees should be fixed so that you can avoid hidden costs throughout your treatment; view orthodontics as a long-term investment for a healthier, more functional smile throughout your life. Prices will vary depending on the type of treatment you choose, but as a rough guide, here’s what you could expect to pay:
- Metallic Braces: £2,295 - £3,835
- Ceramic Braces: £2,845 - £4,490
- Lingual Braces: £3,725 - £8,825
- Invisalign Aligners: £3,015 - £5,045
- Angel Aligners: £3,015 - £4,865
- Bonded Retainers: £275 (per arch)
- Vivera Retainers: £600 (for three full sets)
- Replacement Retainers: £85 - £450
Contact Our Private Clinic for a FREE Initial Consultation
Accessible Orthodontics has been treating people in and around Oxford since 2005, placing enormous value on taking real care of everyone who enters our practice. We’re successful in reaching our goal for each patient - helping them achieve their dream smile in the most effective manner possible.
If you or your child requires orthodontic treatment, it all starts with a free, no-obligation consultation. Simply contact our team today to arrange an appointment, and we can get started in understanding your needs!
