Orthodontics & The NHS

Do I have to pay for NHS treatment?

The NHS funds all the costs of orthodontic

treatment for children who qualify. The only exception is the charge for replacement of removable braces lost or damaged beyond repair.

The NHS contract for orthodontics funds all appliances, adjustments and repairs required during the entire treatment. The practitioner is free to choose whatever technique and appliance s/he wishes within these requirements. S/he is not under an obligation to use or offer any particular appliance. It is not permitted to charge patients under the age of 18 for an appliance or any part of the treatment, nor to insist that part of the treatment is undertaken privately before acceptance as an NHS patient. To do so is, in effect, asking to be paid twice. Any such practice is a serious breach of NHS regulations which renders the orthodontist liable to disciplinary action if reported to the local NHS Commissioning Team or the General Dental Council.

Please note that NHS assessment and treatment is not available for patients aged 18 or over unless they have complex needs and meet the criteria for treatment within the hospital service.

 

Why is there a waiting list?

Funding for orthodontic treatment under the NHS is limited. There is a mismatch between demand and provision and hence there are waiting lists in most areas. For more details on waiting times in your area, please contact your local NHS Dental Commissioning team.

 

What can I do if the NHS won’t fund treatment for my child?

If your child is not judged to have a dental health need, you may wish to seek private treatment.

You can get recommendations from your dentist or the BOS website as to where to go for treatment. It’s always a good idea to talk to others who have had orthodontic treatment and get personal recommendations too.

If you disagree with the assessment your child has received then you should speak to your local NHS Commissioning Team via PALS or ask you family dentist to arrange a second opinion.