NHS Orthodontic VS Private Orthodontic Treatment
From traditional metal braces to clear aligners and invisible braces, Yorkshire Dental Suite offers a range of teeth straightening treatments. Enquire now.
If you’re thinking about straightening your teeth, you’ve likely considered whether private treatment or NHS care is the better option. Let’s discuss the key differences to help you make an informed choice about your smile.
Price
Often the most significant deciding factor for many patients, teeth straightening on the NHS is much cheaper than its private counterpart. Falling under Band 3, braces cost £332.10 on the NHS for adults, while under 18’s receive the treatment for free.
This price increases dramatically if you decide to go private. Depending on the treatment, clinic and pre-existing condition of your mouth, you could be spending anywhere between £1,500 and £8,000. Many private practices will offer finance options to help you spread the cost over time.
Treatment options
The NHS has limited resources. This means that the only teeth straightening treatment they provide is traditional metal braces. Whilst extremely effective, they are not the most subtle or aesthetic option.
Private dental offices, on the other hand, offer a much wider range of procedures. From invisible braces that attach to the back of the teeth to removable clear aligners, patients are able to choose the treatment that suits their specific lifestyle.
Waiting times and appointment availability
18 weeks is the average waiting time for NHS orthodontic appointments. In addition to this, you may find yourself taking time out of your working day to attend an appointment, as the NHS has very limited availability.
What about a private orthodontist? You could be seen the very same or next day (depending on the practice you choose). Out of hours appointments also tend to be more available, and some clinics are even open on the weekend.
Eligibility
One key drawback of NHS orthodontic treatment? Not everyone qualifies. Eligibility is determined using the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN). To be approved for treatment, patients typically need to achieve a score of 4 or 5, indicating a clear clinical need for orthodontics.
Comparatively, private practices will treat almost everyone, even if the patient wants to straighten their smile for aesthetic reasons. Private orthodontists usually check eligibility during a consultation, where finance will also be discussed.
NHS orthodontic VS private orthodontic treatment – which is better?
The most suitable choice depends on numerous factors, including the severity of your teeth misalignment and treatment preference. We have compiled the following to create a clear comparison of NHS clinics and private clinics.
NHS teeth straightening pros | NHS teeth straightening cons | Private teeth straightening pros | Private teeth straightening cons |
Free for under 18’s | Long waiting list | Appointments that fit your schedule, for example, before or after work | Considerably higher costs |
Low cost for adults | No treatment variety, with metal braces being your only option | More treatment options to choose from | Certain orthodontics (like aligners) rely on the effort of the patient |
Close treatment monitoring thanks to regular visits | Strict eligibility – you must have a clinical need for braces | Short waiting list | Additional procedures may be required |
Conclusion:
No matter where you go for your treatment, teeth straightening can have a life-changing impact on your self-confidence. Yorkshire Dental Suite is home to a team of world-class orthodontists that treat misaligned teeth in as little as four months – book your consultation today.