Orthodontic treatment, including braces, is available for children on the NHS in the UK, provided they meet specific clinical criteria. The aim is to ensure that children with significant dental issues receive the necessary treatment to improve their oral health, function, and overall well-being.
Under the NHS, children typically receive metal braces, also known as fixed appliances. These braces are effective in treating a wide range of orthodontic issues and are the most common type used in NHS treatments.
To qualify for NHS-funded braces, children must undergo an assessment using the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN). This system helps determine the severity of the dental issues and whether they meet the threshold for NHS treatment. Generally, cases that affect dental function, such as severe crowding, bite problems, or significant alignment issues, are eligible.
For children who meet the clinical criteria, NHS orthodontic treatment is provided at no cost. This ensures that all children, regardless of their financial situation, have access to necessary orthodontic care. However, if a child's case does not qualify for NHS treatment, parents may need to consider private orthodontic options, which will involve additional costs.
At Refine we offer our patients private orthodontic care which ensures your child receives timely and effective treatment. If you would like to find out more about our private orthodontic care for children, please click the button below.
PRIVATE ORTHODONTIC CARE FOR KIDS
Orthodontic treatment for children on the NHS is designed to address significant dental issues that affect a child’s oral health and function. To qualify for free orthodontic care, children must meet specific clinical criteria, which are assessed by a specialist orthodontist. Here's an overview of how the qualification process works:
Referral and Initial Assessment:
Typically, a child is referred to an orthodontist by their general dentist, who identifies potential orthodontic issues that may require specialist care.
During the initial consultation, the orthodontist will conduct a thorough examination of the child's teeth and jaws.
Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN):
The primary tool used to determine eligibility for NHS-funded orthodontic treatment is the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN).
The IOTN grades the severity of malocclusions (misalignments of teeth and jaws) on a scale from 1 to 5, with 5 being the most severe.
The IOTN is divided into two components:
Dental Health Component (DHC): Assesses the health implications of the malocclusion, including issues like overbites, underbites, crossbites, crowding, and spacing.
Aesthetic Component (AC): Evaluates the visual impact of the malocclusion on the child's appearance.
Qualification Criteria:
Dental Health Component (DHC):
Children must have a DHC score of 4 or 5 to qualify for NHS treatment. These scores indicate significant dental health issues that warrant orthodontic intervention.
A score of 3 may qualify in some cases if the aesthetic component also indicates a substantial need for treatment.
Aesthetic Component (AC):
The AC uses a series of photographs to grade the aesthetic impact of the malocclusion.
A score of 6 or higher on the AC, combined with a DHC score of 3, may also make a child eligible for NHS-funded treatment.
Severe crowding or spacing:
Significant overlap of teeth or large gaps between teeth.
Overbite or underbite:
Excessive protrusion or retrusion of the upper or lower teeth.
Crossbite:
When some of the upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth.
Impacted teeth:
Teeth that have not erupted properly.
Open bite:
Lack of vertical overlap of the front teeth when biting.
Treatment Planning:
If a child qualifies for NHS orthodontic treatment, the orthodontist will create a detailed treatment plan tailored to the child's specific needs.
The plan will outline the type of braces to be used, the estimated duration of treatment, and any other necessary procedures.
Waiting List:
Due to high demand, there may be a waiting list for NHS orthodontic treatment. The length of the wait can vary based on the severity of the case and local availability of orthodontic services.
Regular Check-Ups:
Once treatment begins, regular appointments will be scheduled to adjust the braces and monitor progress.
By ensuring that children with significant orthodontic needs receive the necessary treatment, the NHS helps to improve their oral health, function, and overall quality of life. Early intervention and proper orthodontic care can lead to lasting benefits and a healthier, more confident smile.
The NHS recommends that children have an orthodontic assessment by age 7 if there are any concerns about their dental development. An early assessment allows for early detection of potential issues with tooth alignment and jaw development.
NHS orthodontic treatment is available for children under 18 if their case meets certain clinical criteria. This is assessed using the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN), which evaluates the severity of the orthodontic problem. Treatments are typically provided for more severe cases that impact dental function and aesthetics.
NHS orthodontic treatment may include metal braces, ceramic braces, and in some cases, functional appliances. The choice of treatment depends on the specific needs of the child and the clinical assessment by the orthodontist.
The duration of NHS orthodontic treatment can vary based on the complexity of the case and the type of treatment used. On average, NHS treatments take between 12 to 24 months. The treatment timeline will be discussed during your child's initial consultation.
For eligible children, NHS orthodontic treatment is generally provided at no cost. However, if the case does not meet the clinical criteria for NHS coverage, you may need to consider private treatment options, which will involve additional costs.
MORE ABOUT PRIVATE ORTHODONTIC CARE
Alfreton Primary Care Centre,
Church Street, Alfreton,
Derbyshire DE55 7AH
T. 01773 830 560
E. info@refinedental.co.uk
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