How much do braces cost in the UK for under-18s?

For many parents residing in the UK, a confident and healthy smile, especially for their child, is very important and is considered a necessity. But, when it comes to orthodontics, one of the frequently asked questions is: "How much are braces in the UK for under 18s?". Knowing the costs of the braces and the options, whether for NHS orthodontic treatment or private orthodontic care, would enable you to make an informed decision to choose the best braces for children.

In this blog, we'll break down NHS orthodontic treatment eligibility, the differences in private orthodontic care costs, and explore an affordable solution for getting perfectly aligned teeth.

Children's dental braces in the UK

There are different types of braces: metal, ceramic, lingual, and clear aligners, each with its own look and function. We understand your confusion regarding the multiple options of braces in the market. So, here are the details of the types of braces available in the UK for kids:

Clear aligners

Clear aligners are dental trays made up of clear plastic that fit snugly onto the teeth. These plastic trays gradually exert pressure on the misaligned teeth, gently moving them to their aligned position. These are transparent and removable, so, are the perfect solution for those teens who want an invisible treatment to avoid anyone's attention. Clear aligners are an effective alternative to traditional braces to treat mild to moderate teeth misalignment issues. The cost of clear aligners may vary between £2,000 to £5,000, depending on your case severity, the treatment time, the provider, and whether you have opted for remote or in-office treatment.

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Traditional metal braces

Standard metal braces are the most common type of braces for children. Each tooth gets a small bracket connected by a metal wire, which is gradually adjusted to move teeth into the desired position. While older versions were bulky and uncomfortable, modern metal braces are much smaller and more comfortable. Kids can also personalize their braces by choosing fun, colorful elastics during each adjustment. They're a highly effective option for all alignment issues, with treatment usually lasting 18-24 months. You may have to pay between £1,800 - £3,000 if you opt for traditional metal braces. However, the cost varies depending on whether you prefer NHS braces or private treatment.

Ceramic braces

These braces function similarly to traditional metal ones, but they're designed to be more discreet thanks to the materials used. The brackets come in clear or tooth-colored options, allowing them to blend in more naturally with the teeth, while the wire is usually metal, sometimes with a tooth-colored coating for added subtlety. Although they tend to be more expensive than metal braces, they can be a great option for children who are especially self-conscious about wearing braces and prefer a less noticeable look. The cost of ceramic braces in the UK lies between £2,000 - £5,000.

Lingual braces

Lingual braces use metal brackets and wires just like traditional braces, but they're cleverly positioned behind the teeth, near the tongue, making them almost invisible to others. This hidden placement makes them a great option for kids who may feel self-conscious about wearing visible braces. An added advantage is that any potential staining from inconsistent oral hygiene is hidden at the back of the teeth, keeping the front smile looking clean and unaffected. Although lingual braces are a great option for those who don't want to compromise their appearance, they are more costly than other options. Their cost lies between £3,000 - £7,000.

Cost comparison of braces in the UK for under 18s

NHS braces eligibility for under-18s

In the UK, NHS orthodontic treatment is available for children and teenagers who meet specific criteria. The treatment is free for those children who qualify, but not every child will be eligible. The NHS braces eligibility is determined through an assessment called the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Needed (IOTN), which helps orthodontists evaluate the severity of a child's dental issues.

How the IOTN works

The IOTN is a grading system that categorizes dental issues into different levels, based on their severity. The assessment considers several factors such as:

Factors to consider when getting NHS braces

What if your child doesn't qualify for NHS braces?

If your child doesn't qualify for orthodontic treatment funding, or if you prefer a more discreet option like clear aligners or ceramic braces, you may need to explore private orthodontic care. This allows greater flexibility in the treatment options available, with faster treatment times, fewer restrictions, and a wider variety of braces and aligner types to choose from.

Private orthodontic treatment costs

When NHS braces are not an option, or you must wait too long for your turn, you can choose private orthodontic treatment. Private orthodontic care provides the benefit of faster results, more treatment flexibility, and access to a wider range of brace options.

Factors Influencing Private Orthodontic Treatment Cost

If you opt for the private orthodontic treatment, you have to consider several factors that can influence the cost. These factors include

If the cost of braces seems scary to you, don't worry, many dental clinics offer interest-free payment plans spread throughout treatment. You can also explore dental loans or check if your child's private dental insurance covers orthodontic treatment.

Other costs to consider

While the cost of braces is often the primary concern, it's important to understand that orthodontic treatment involves more than just the initial fitting. These hidden costs can quickly add up, particularly in cases where your child's treatment is complex or extended. Here's a closer look at the common additional costs associated with children's dental braces in the UK:

Retainers after braces

Once the braces come off, the job isn't quite done. Retainers are essential to keep teeth in their new position and prevent them from shifting back. Most orthodontists recommend wearing retainers full-time for the first few months, then at night indefinitely.

Consultations and assessments

Most private orthodontists offer an initial consultation, which may or may not be free. This appointment usually includes a dental examination, X-rays, imaging, and a treatment plan. While some clinics include this in their overall fee, others charge separately for consultations, especially if a second opinion or re-evaluation is needed.

Follow-up visits and emergency appointments

Braces require regular monitoring, adjustments, and occasionally, emergency visits due to broken wires or brackets, pain or irritation, or lost retainers.

Location of the dentist's office

The location of your dentist or orthodontist's office can significantly influence the cost of braces. In urban areas or major cities, prices tend to be higher due to a luxurious lifestyle. On the other hand, clinics in smaller towns or rural areas usually offer more affordable rates, as operational costs are lower and competition might be less intense.

Caspersmile: The affordable teeth straightening solution

If you're a parent exploring braces options for your child or teen, you've likely discovered just how expensive traditional orthodontic treatment can be. Between long NHS waiting lists and the high costs of private braces, it's easy to feel caught between two extremes. That's where Caspersmile steps in, offering a modern, convenient, and budget-friendly alternative that doesn't compromise on results. At Caspersmile, clear aligners are made with BPA-free plastic to ensure the quality treatment of its valuable customers.

How Caspersmile saves your pounds

Here is why Caspersmile saves your money:

Significantly lower costs

Caspersmile Clear Aligners cost a fraction of the prices offered by competitors, without compromising on results. This makes it one of the most budget-friendly options for mild to moderate cases, particularly ideal for teens who just need slight alignment corrections.

No hidden or extra costs

Caspersmile offers a clear, all-inclusive pricing model, so you know exactly what you're paying for upfront. This transparency ensures no surprise expenses during the treatment process, making it easier for parents to budget.

Remote treatment

Because of the remote treatment offered by Caspersmile, as a parent, you don't have to pay travel expenses or a hefty consultation fee. The entire treatment, from initial impressions to aligner delivery, happens from home, cutting both the cost and hassle.

So, how much are braces in the UK for under 18s?

Whether you opt for NHS orthodontic treatment or explore private orthodontic care, understanding the options, costs, and eligibility is essential for making the best decision for your family. While NHS braces may be free for those who qualify, private treatments offer more flexibility and faster access, but often at a higher price usually ranging from £1,800-£3,000 for metal braces, £2,000-£5,000 for ceramic braces, £3,000-£7,000 for lingual braces and £2,000-£5,000 for in-office clear aligners.

There are less expensive and more practical options when it comes to clear aligners, like Caspersmile, which offers high-quality professional care at home at affordable prices starting at £749 (one-time payment). With the appropriate information and support, you can choose a solution that works with your budget as well as your child's dental requirements for a positive and healthy smile now and for years to come.

FAQs

Who qualifies for free braces under the NHS in the UK? +

NHS orthodontic treatment is free for people under the age of 18 with a clear health need for treatment.

What are the costs of private braces for individuals under 18 in the UK? +

The cost of private braces for individuals under 18 in the UK is different for every type. Metal braces cost £1,800-£3,000, lingual braces cost £3,000-£7,000, ceramic braces cost £2,000-£5,000, and clear aligners cost £2,000-£5,000.

How does the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Needed (IOTN) determine NHS eligibility? +

The Index of Orthodontic Treatment Needed (IOTN) determines NHS eligibility by assessing the severity of dental issues using two components: the Dental Health Component (DHC) for functional needs and the Aesthetic Component (AC) for appearance. To qualify for NHS treatment, patients generally need a DHC score of 3 to 5 and an AC score of 6 or higher. This system prioritizes cases based on medical and functional necessity.

Are there waiting lists for NHS orthodontic treatment for minors? +

Yes, there are waiting lists for NHS orthodontic treatment for minors due to high demand.

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