NHS Treatment

NHS treatment is available for most children under 18 years of age. Under current regulations, to qualify for NHS orthodontic treatment, you must be registered as an NHS patient with your dentist. Your dentist will refer you for an NHS consultation. Being referred to an orthodontist does not mean that orthodontic treatment will be provided under the NHS. You will be advised if you meet the criteria for NHS treatment.

Orthodontic treatment will only be considered where the patient has maintained a good standard of oral health. This means that tooth brushing must be of a very high standard with healthy gums and no teeth needing fillings or teeth recently filled.

For NHS treatment we may use a combination of removable and all-metal fixed braces. Appointment times may on occasion require younger patients to take time off school.

What if my child does not meet the criteria for NHS treatment?

Due to NHS restrictions some patients can no longer be treated free of charge under the NHS system because their dental irregularity is not considered severe enough when compared against the IOTN (Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need) set out by the Scottish Government. For those patients who don’t qualify but still feel they would benefit from treatment we offer a self funded option called “Budget Braces”. This option allows the patient to fund their own orthodontic treatment at a much lower cost than private treatment. The patient will receive the same metal brackets as used for NHS patients. Treatment can be started almost immediately and even small dental irregularities can be treated.

If, however, there is a need for more aesthetic braces or more flexible appointment times then please see our Private Treatment options.