April 14, 2025
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Patients frequently ask, “Are braces free in the UK?” The answer depends on strict NHS dental treatment eligibility criteria. Consideration under IOTN is for severity affecting oral health before any cosmetic matters.
For adult orthodontics UK cases, free treatment is rare. Most adults explore private orthodontics, where an orthodontic treatment costs anything from £1,500 for basic metal braces to £5,500+ for invisible aligners. The NHS would only treat adults with functional impairment or a medical need.
This guide covers all possible options, from NHS dental care routes to affordable private alternatives, therefore helping you to make informed decisions about straightening teeth in the UK.
Understanding NHS orthodontic treatment
The National Health Service (NHS) offers free or subsidised treatment to patients fulfilling dental braces eligibility criteria. Unfortunately, not everyone is eligible for this type of treatment, as orthodontic treatment is prioritised for cases where braces are medically required rather than for cosmetic purposes.
How does the NHS determine who gets free braces?
The Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need, or IOTN, is used by the NHS to decide whether a patient may qualify for free braces. This is a grading system that comprises:
Dental Health Need (IOTN Dental Health Component - DHC)
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Grade 5 (Severe Need): Extreme misalignment, chewing/speaking issues, or a risk of damaging the tooth structure.
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Grade 4 (High Need): It consists of severe overjet, underbite, and crowding.
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Grade 3 (Moderate Need): Mild to moderate problems that may not qualify.
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Grades 1-2 (Low Need): Slight aesthetic problems that are unlikely to qualify.
Aesthetic Need (IOTN Aesthetic Component - AC)
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A score from 1 (perfect teeth) to 10 (severe aesthetic concerns)
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A score greater than or equal to 6 may help qualify for treatment.
Why have braces?
Braces align teeth and correct bite issues for proper oral health. Properly aligned teeth improve chewing food, and speech, and reduce the risk of tooth decay, gum diseases, and jaw pain. Many patients gain confidence after treatment from their improved smiles. Orthodontic correction will benefit both children and adults. Today's options include invisible clear aligners along with conventional braces. An orthodontist can advise if braces suit your needs or clear aligners.
Free braces for children in the UK
Children and teenagers under 18 can get free braces on the NHS if they meet clinical criteria.
Who qualifies for free braces?
Anyone under the age of 18 with:
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Severe crowding or spacing problems.
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Trauma-risking tooth protrusions.
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Deep overbite or underbite concerning function.
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Crossbite causing misalignment.
How do you apply for NHS braces for your child?
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Register with an NHS dentist: Regular checks will help identify orthodontic problems early.
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Get a referral: If a brace is needed, a dentist will refer your child to an orthodontist.
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IOTN assessment: This involves the orthodontist deciding whether the case fits NHS criteria or not.
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Treatment Approval: If eligible, braces are fitted at no cost.
Are braces free for adults in the UK?
Adult braces funded by the NHS are rare and only applicable in extreme medical cases.
When can an adult get Free Braces?
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Severe misalignment causing pain, difficulty in chewing, or speech problems.
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Jaw deformities that involve surgical correction with braces.
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Congenital deformities, such as a cleft palate, directly affecting the teeth.
How much do private braces cost in the UK?
| Type of braces | Average cost | Treatment duration |
| Metal braces | £1,800 - £3,000 | 12-24 months |
| Ceramic braces | £2,000-£5,000 | 12-24 months |
| Lingual braces | £3,000-£7,000 | 12-24 months |
| In-Office Clear aligners | £2,000-£5,000 | 4-6 months |
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Alternatives to free NHS braces
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Dental Insurance - Orthodontics are covered under certain plans.
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Charity Programs - Organizations such as Dentaid assist low-income patients.
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Dental Schools - Treatment at reduced rates under the supervision of students.
Are braces free in the UK?
NHS braces are free for qualifying children under 18 with clinical needs. Adults are rarely eligible unless there are severe functional dental problems. The IOTN system decides qualification on medical grounds rather than cosmetic desires. Private treatment will be the only option in most cases of adult orthodontics.
Costs differ between wearing metal braces and premium invisible aligners. Payment plans and affordable school dental clinics are other advantageous options when needed. Early assessment with an NHS dentist is essential for children with severe conditions because of long waiting periods.
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References
Dental Artistry. How much are braces in the UK?
(https://dentalartistry.co.uk/2025/01/21/how-much-are-braces-uk/). Accessed 10/28/2024.
Stoke
Orthodontics. How do I get my child braces on the NHS?
(https://stokeorthodontics.co.uk/news-and-updates/how-do-i-get-my-child-braces-on-the-nhs?). Accessed
10/28/2024.
NHS. Braces and orthodontics.
(https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/braces-and-orthodontics/?). Accessed 10/28/2024.
Tooth Fairy App.
How much are braces in the UK?
(https://toothfairyapp.co.uk/knowledge/how-much-are-braces-uk/). Accessed
10/28/2024.
Straight My Teeth. Are braces included in the NHS?
(https://www.straightmyteeth.com/blog/are-braces-included-in-the-nhs?). Accessed 10/28/2024.
Bupa. Braces cost and finance.
(https://www.bupa.co.uk/dental/dental-care/treatments/orthodontics/braces-cost-and-finance?). Accessed
10/28/2024.
Tooth Fairy App. How much are braces in the UK?
(https://toothfairyapp.co.uk/knowledge/how-much-are-braces-uk/). Accessed 10/28/2024.
