NHS Orthodontic treatment is free for people under the age of 18 with a clear health need for treatment.
NHS Orthodontic treatment is available for children under 18 years of age subject to certain conditions. Children must be referred to us by their dentist in order to be assessed for NHS treatment.
Indicators of treatment need and outcome have been developed and validated by the whole Orthodontic profession to assess the efficacy and appropriateness of care. The most widely used is the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN). In general, only moderate to severe Orthodontic conditions will be funded by the NHS. Following an initial consultation we will advise you on whether you will qualify for treatment under the NHS.
Appliances (braces) can be fixed or removable and are used to straighten the teeth and encourage growth and development. The main aims of Orthodontic care are to produce a healthy, functional bite, creating greater resistance to disease and improving personal appearance.
Our long established reputation for high skill and experience in treating children has made us a favourite amongst London school children and parents alike.
In the past many children began their Orthodontic treatment when they reached age 12 to 14 years since all the adult teeth have erupted by this time. At the London Orthodontic Group, in line with the American Association of Orthodontics, we recommend all children should have an orthodontic evaluation by age 7. Early evaluation provides both timely detection and greater opportunity for more effective treatment. Prudent intervention guides growth and development, preventing serious problems later. And if Orthodontic intervention is not necessary, we can carefully monitor your child’s growth and development and begin treatment only when it is ideal.
Our early intervention treatments:
Can create room for crowded, erupting teeth
Create facial symmetry through influencing jaw growth
Reduce the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth
Reduce the need for tooth removal
Reduce treatment time with braces
Teenagers experience a golden time when all of their adult teeth have erupted, but they are still undergoing rapid facial growth. This can be the best opportunity to undertake Orthodontic treatment to shape the appearance and function of their smile and support the future of their overall health.
Crooked teeth can have profound effects on a teenager’s self-esteem and social skills. If your parents had braces, you may have seen pictures of them with their mouths full of metal. Today, braces are much less noticeable. Metal braces are still used for treatment under the NHS. However we do also offer clear braces privately.
Teenagers are more than just big kids so we take care to include both the parent and teenager in all discussions we have.
