NHS Treatment
Orthodontic treatment is only available free of charge on the NHS for young people who are under 18 years of age and who have a clear clinical need for treatment.
A rating system, known as the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN), is used to assess the need and eligibility of individual cases. The IOTN is made up of five grades, which are listed below.
Grade 1: almost perfect teeth.
Grade 2: minor irregularities with the teeth, such as slightly protruding upper front teeth.
Grade 3: greater irregularities with the teeth do not require treatment for health reasons. For example, upper front teeth that protrude 4mm (0.15 inches) or less.
Grade 4: a severe degree of irregularity with the teeth that requires treatment for health reasons. For example, upper front teeth that protrudes more than 6mm (0.25 inches).
Grade 5: severe dental health problems. For example, upper front teeth that protrudes more than 9mm (0.35 inches).
NHS treatment is available for grade four or five cases. Grade three cases are usually judged on a case-by-case basis, and treatment may be made available if the appearance of the teeth is particularly unattractive.
NHS Times are
Monday – Thursday 9.30am -1.00pm and 1.00pm-3.30pm
Friday 9.30am -1.00pm