Braces for children and teenagers
When to start, health service or private treatment, and how parents can help.
The best time to start
For most children, the best time to start brace treatment is between 12 and 14 years old, when most of the adult teeth have come through. Starting too early can mean waiting for teeth that are not yet ready to move.
If your dentist is concerned about your child’s teeth, they can refer them to us. At the first visit we take a 3D scan and photographs, and we will tell you if it is better to wait and see your child again later.
At a glance
- Best age to start: usually 12 to 14.
- Health service (NHS) treatment if your child qualifies – waits are usually 6–12 months for assessment, then 3–6 months to start treatment, depending on the case.
- Private treatment has no waiting list.
- Retainers for life after treatment.
Health service or private?
Braces are paid for by the health service (NHS) only when the teeth are significantly out of position. The orthodontist decides this using a scoring system called IOTN. Your child needs a referral from your dentist. Health service (NHS) waits are usually 6–12 months for assessment, then 3–6 months to start treatment, depending on the case.
If your child does not qualify, or you would rather not wait, private treatment is available. While your child is under 18, private braces or Smartee clear aligners cost £2,900 with our under-18s offer (usually £3,900) – see private braces for under-18s. For adults, private metal braces and clear aligners cost the same – from £2,900, £3,900 or £4,900 depending on complexity – and you can spread the cost over 12 months: a £900 deposit, then the rest in 12 monthly payments (a £150 plan fee is added to the balance and spread across your monthly payments). Clear aligners are private only. Compare private and health service treatment. If you paid the £155 private assessment, it comes off the deposit, so you pay a £745 deposit and the same monthly payments. This does not apply to cross-border (HSE) patients.
Not sure what is wrong with the bite? See common bite problems.
Types of brace for children
Fixed braces
Brackets glued to the teeth and joined by a wire. Usually checked every 8 to 10 weeks.
Metal bracesRemovable braces
A plastic plate that clips onto the teeth. Worn 20 to 22 hours a day, taken out only for meals, brushing and sport, and never out for more than 30 minutes at a time.
Removable bracesTwin Block
Worn while a child is still growing, to reduce prominent upper front teeth. Worn 20 to 22 hours a day, typically for 4 to 12 months depending on severity and wear, and never out for more than 30 minutes at a time.
Twin BlockNervous children and additional needs
If your child is anxious or finds new sensations difficult, let us know when you book. We can show them the instruments first, explain each step and go at their pace. Ask your clinician during your appointment if anything would help.
How parents can help
- Help your child wear their brace as advised – removable braces and Twin Blocks only work when they are in.
- Encourage brushing after meals and cutting down on sugary and fizzy drinks.
- Keep removable braces in their case, away from pets, and keep the model of their teeth safe.
- Come to every appointment. If you cannot make one, tell us as soon as possible.
- After treatment, make sure they wear their retainers every night.
Your child can usually keep playing sport. See sport and braces.
Questions and answers
What is the best age for braces?
For most children, between 12 and 14 years old, when most adult teeth have come through. Some children need to wait longer. There is no upper age limit.
How do I get my child assessed?
For health service (NHS) treatment, ask your dentist to refer your child. For private treatment, you can refer your child yourself using our self-referral form.
How long is the wait for health service braces?
Health service (NHS) waits are usually 6–12 months for assessment, then 3–6 months to start treatment, depending on the case. Private treatment has no waiting list.
Can my child have clear aligners?
Clear aligners are a private treatment only. The orthodontist will tell you if they are suitable for your child’s teeth.
How long does treatment take?
Health service (NHS) treatment usually takes 18 to 24 months, but it can vary depending on how complex the case is. Private treatment usually takes 2–24 months, depending on complexity. Mild cases can often be quite straightforward to fix. Your clinician will give you an estimate at your assessment.
Turned down for NHS braces – can I still have treatment?
Yes. If your child’s teeth do not qualify for health service (NHS) treatment under the IOTN scoring system, private treatment is still possible. Private treatment usually takes 2–24 months, depending on complexity. Mild cases can often be quite straightforward to fix. A private assessment costs £155.
Questions about your treatment?
Our friendly team is happy to help. Call us on 028 9045 1303 or send us an email.