Braces and orthodontics – NHS

About a third of children need orthodontic treatment. Find answers to some common questions about braces and orthodontics.

Why should I have braces?

The purpose of orthodontic treatment is to get the most out of your teeth.

This includes straightening your teeth so you can take care of your teeth and gums more easily, and improving your bite so you can eat more comfortably. And your smile will benefit too.

Treatment almost always involves using braces to straighten crooked, crowded, or protruding teeth, close gaps between teeth, and correct the bite so that the upper and lower teeth meet when the mouth is closed.

You will need to have healthy teeth and gums to be able to fit a brace.

This is because you need to be able to keep your teeth and braces very clean while wearing them to avoid tooth decay or gum disease.

Treatment usually lasts from 12 months to 2.5 years and requires visits to the orthodontist every 4 to 10 weeks.

Are braces available on the NHS?

Orthodontic treatment is available on the NHS for under 18s free of charge if the dentist thinks they need it.

NHS orthodontic treatment is not usually available for adults, but can be approved on a case-by-case basis if needed for health reasons.

Your dentist can give you more information.

What is the best age to get braces?

The ideal age to get braces is usually around 12 or 13, while a child’s mouth and jaws are still growing, but it can be earlier or later.

The opportunity for improvement in an adult is more limited and treatment is likely to take longer.

How do I fit braces?

Many children do not need braces, but those who do need to be referred to orthodontics by their dentist.

By law, only registered specialists can call themselves qualified orthodontists.

Other dentists may have additional training to perform orthodontic treatment as well.

Some orthodontists work with orthodontic therapists who can adjust the braces under the orthodontist’s supervision.

You can search the registers on the General Dental Council website to check the qualifications of an orthodontist.

How are the braces?

There are many different types of braces. Some are fixed and stay in all the time. These are the standard bases for NHS treatment in under-18s.

NHS braces are made of metal, but clear ceramic braces, which are less visible, are also available privately.

Removable aligners (thin, clear, flexible plastic shields) may also be available privately.

These fit well over the teeth and you take them off at mealtimes or to clean them, but otherwise they are worn all the time.

Read more about the different types of braces on the orthodontic treatment page.

How successful are braces?

Orthodontic treatment usually works very well, but you have to follow it for it to be successful.

You will need to wear a retainer for some time after your treatment is completed to stop your teeth from moving back into the position they were in before treatment.

There are many different types of retainers, which can either be removed or attached to the teeth.

Braces can trap food and cause more plaque to build up than usual, so you should be extra careful about cleaning your teeth.

You also need to watch what you eat – for example, avoiding sugary foods and drinks.

You should continue to see your regular dentist while undergoing orthodontic treatment.

Read more about how to care for your teeth and gums and how to keep your teeth clean.

What if my child is refused NHS braces?

About two-thirds of children do not need orthodontic treatment.

But if you think your child is being unfairly rejected for NHS treatment, you should talk to your dentist first.

If you are still dissatisfied, please contact your NHS Regional Team in England.

Can I have private treatment?

Private treatment is widely available. Fees for private orthodontic treatment are usually around £2,500 but can be much higher.