Patients Information

Anyone under the age of 18 is entitled to a free NHS assessment to determine if they are eligible for treatment. To assess eligibility the orthodontist will use the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN). The NHS will only provide funding for patients who are in greater need of treatment and therefore will not usually cover treatment that is purely aesthetic.

If you wish to be seen for an NHS assessment, you must be referred to our practice by your usual dentist. Unfortunately, we do have an extensive waiting list for NHS patients. This is because we are only allocated a certain amount of funding and can therefore only start a certain number of cases each year. If you do not wish to wait on the list you do have the option of starting treatment privately.

Once you reach the top of the list, or if your dentist has indicated on the referral there is an urgent need to start the treatment, you will be invited to attend the practice for an initial consultation appointment. The orthodontist will make an assessment of your teeth using the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN). They will then discuss with you whether you are eligible for NHS treatment or whether the IOTN score is too low. If you are eligible for NHS treatment the treatment plan will be discussed and we will arrange for your next appointment for some basic records which will include photographs of your face and teeth, a digital scan of the teeth and x-rays if these have not already been done.

If you are not eligible for NHS treatment, you can still pursue orthodontic treatment on a private basis. Private treatment options and costs will be discussed with you.