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Free Consultation
Free Consultation

NHS Braces: Free Assessments for Under-18s

The NHS currently funds (at no cost to the patient) orthodontic treatment for patients of 17 years of age and under that meet the NHS criteria (the ‘IOTN’). This system means that funding is fairly directed towards the most severe cases and those children who will benefit from treatment most.

While NHS assessments are available to all patients (aged 17 and under) referred by their dentist, treatment is not available if the problem is too mild according to the IOTN score. NHS treatment is also unavailable to patients aged 18 years and older, or to those who have already undertaken a previous course of NHS treatment.

For everything you need to know about orthodontics and the NHS, including IOTN, please click here to visit the British Orthodontic Society website. 

 

NHS Braces: Free Assessments for Under-18s
Alexandra wearing fixed metal braces
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Fixed metal braces for under 18s from 5105 A Month

Fixed metal braces for under 18's from £51.05 A Month

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Why Queensway Orthodontics

Why Queensway Orthodontics?

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The first step: A video consultation

The first step: A video consultation

The specialist orthodontist will put you and your child at ease and have a chat about various options for treatment including NHS and self-funded options using the photographs you have provided. This is your opportunity to ask any questions you have about your child’s orthodontic treatment. At the end of the consultation, you should feel reassured, informed, and know what all your choices are, leaving your child feeling excited about their journey to a new smile.

In more complex cases, we might ask you to bring your child to one of our clinics so we can meet them in person and have a closer look at their teeth, to make absolutely sure we are offering the best treatments for them.

Will my child get NHS funding?

One of our Specialist Orthodontists will assess your child’s teeth and tell you whether they qualify for NHS funded treatment at your initial video consultation. The NHS provides free orthodontic treatment for children who meet their criteria.

Will my child get NHS funding?
Elliot is wearing fixed metal braces
Understanding the NHS Braces Waiting List
Rhianna is wearing fixed metal braces

Understanding the NHS Braces Waiting List

We understand that waiting for orthodontic treatment can be a challenging time, especially for children eager to start their smile journey. Currently, NHS braces waiting times can range from 12 to 24 months, depending on demand and availability in your area. In some regions, the wait may extend beyond two years.

If you're looking to begin treatment sooner, Queensway Orthodontics offers self-funded options that can typically commence immediately. Our team is here to discuss these alternatives with you, ensuring your child doesn't have to wait to achieve a confident, healthy smile.

What if my child doesn’t qualify for NHS funding?

Try not to worry, we’ll be able to explain clearly why they didn’t qualify for NHS funding at your appointment. We do understand that some children would still like to enjoy the benefits of orthodontic treatment, that's why we have a team of friendly treatment coordinators who can guide you through our self-funded options and flexible payment plans.

What if my child doesn’t qualify for NHS funding?
Izzy wearing fixed metal braces with multi-coloured elastics
Will my child need train track braces?
Adam is wearing Ceramic Braces and Rachel is wearing Invisalign Teen

Will my child need train track braces?

There are lots of treatments available these days. Traditional metal braces are extremely effective and available for those who qualify for NHS funding. But for a more discreet alternative, we have self-funded options including ceramic fixed braces and Invisalign clear aligners. To help make these options accessible for all, we offer flexible payment plans to suit your budget. And the good news is - you can get started straight away.

Does my child have to wait for NHS treatment?

Your child's access to NHS treatment can involve a waiting period. However, at QO we understand your child may want to start treatment sooner. That’s why, we offer you a choice of self-funded options with flexible payment plans. Click here to find out more.

Does my child have to wait for NHS treatment?
Joey wearing fixed metal braces

Owen

Every time I visited my dentist, I enquired about getting braces, but I was told that the gap wasn't large enough to meet the criteria for NHS treatment.

I had Invisalign with Queensway Orthodontics, and I couldn't have imagined the incredible results I achieved.

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Eleanor

I was referred to an orthodontist via the NHS but my mum and I were made aware that there was a waiting list and that treatment would not start for 18 months. I was keen to start treatment ASAP to minimise interruptions to my GCSE courses and wanted to start treatment sooner. Now I am a lot more confident with my smile and I love my teeth!

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Ruby

I heard about QO from friends and after doing some research, decided Invisalign was the best fit for me, as the removable clear aligners would enable me to continue doing the hobbies I enjoyed! I wanted to straighten my teeth, bring forward my bottom teeth, and fix the overlapping in the front of my smile and I love my results!"

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Charlotte

My teeth had always been perfectly healthy, but never straight and with a huge gap at the front. This had never bothered me until I moved to secondary school. Having been on the NHS waiting list for a while, my treatment began. All the staff were so lovely. I honestly feel that I have had the best care and I am very thankful."

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Save Up to £955 on Treatment at Our August Open Days!

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