What is orthodontic treatment?

Orthodontic treatment usually involves the wearing of braces (removable or fixed), often with the extraction of teeth and very occasionally jaw surgery.

Why might I need orthodontic treatment?

There are 3 main reasons for having orthodontic treatment:

· To improve the appearance of the teeth and face
· To improve the health of the teeth and gums
· To improve function i.e. to make it easier to eat.

Who is eligible for NHS treatment?

All patients are eligible for an NHS assessment. However, health service funding for treatment is directed at those patients in whom treatment will give an improvement in dental health and not just in the appearance of their teeth.

The way in which the orthodontist decides whether NHS funding is available is by using a complex system of measurements called the Index of Orthodontic Need (IOTN). As the name suggests this index gives a higher weight to those cases which need treatment for an improvement in their dental health.

Dental problems which will be provided for on health grounds include:
· Increased prominence of teeth in excess of 6mm
· Significant crowding of teeth
· Abnormal bites causing trauma
· Abnormal bites causing functional problems
· Missing or impacted teeth

Cases with a borderline need for treatment are then assessed on aesthetics (how attractive the teeth look) and cases with a low aesthetic score are unlikely to qualify for orthodontic treatment under the NHS. Milder cases will not be eligible for NHS funding