NHS

Orthodontic treatment is used to improve the appearance, position and function of crooked or abnormally arranged teeth.

Orthodontic treatment can straighten the teeth and move them into a better position. Stoke Orthodontics specialise in this area of dentistry.

What does orthodontic treatment involve?

Your general dentist will inform you if they feel your son or daughter may require orthodontic treatment and refer you to us. You can also seek treatment directly, however this would be on a private basis. If orthodontic treatment is recommended, you may have to decide whether to have treatment privately or on the NHS. Please ask your General Dentist for more information on NHS referrals.

Who needs orthodontic treatment?

Many people have crowded or crooked teeth, or their teeth don't meet correctly when they bite. These problems can mean the teeth are more likely to become damaged or put a strain on jaw muscles. In some cases, abnormal development of the teeth and jaw can affect the shape of the face. Problems with crooked and out-of-place teeth are quite common in the UK. It's thought around a third of 12-year-olds would benefit from some degree of orthodontic treatment.

How can I access orthodontic treatment?

In most cases, you or your child will be referred to us by your dentist, although you may be able to seek treatment directly. If orthodontic treatment is recommended, you may have to decide whether to have treatment privately or on the NHS.

NHS orthodontic treatment is free for people under the age of 18 with a clear clinical need for treatment. However, because of the high demand for treatment, there can be a long waiting list for NHS orthodontic treatment.

If you don't qualify for free NHS treatment, or you don't want to wait for treatment to start, you may choose to have private treatment. Private treatment is widely available but can be expensive, with an average fee of between £2,000 and £6,000. VIEW PRIVATE SERVICES.