Are braces free on the NHS for children?

Chelwood Dental Care
Oct 8
2 min read

Many parents ask us whether their child can get braces for free on the NHS — and it’s a great question! At Chelwood Dental in Leeds, we know how important it is for children and teenagers to have healthy, confident smiles. Here’s what you need to know about NHS orthodontic treatment, who qualifies, and what your options are if your child doesn’t meet the NHS criteria.

NHS Orthodontic Treatment for Children

In the UK, orthodontic treatment (braces) for children is free on the NHS — but only if they meet specific clinical criteria. This means that not every child who would like straighter teeth will qualify.

To help dentists decide who is eligible, the NHS uses something called the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN).

What Is the IOTN?

The IOTN is a scoring system used to measure how much a person’s teeth and bite need orthodontic treatment.

Grades 1–3 are considered mild to moderate and usually don’t qualify for NHS treatment.
Grade 4–5 indicates a more severe dental need, such as teeth that don’t meet properly, significant crowding, or impacted teeth — and these typically qualify for NHS braces.

In simple terms: the NHS focuses on cases that affect dental health and function, not just appearance. We can usually assess your child's IOTN at their normal check up appointments.

My Child Wants Straighter Teeth But Doesn’t Qualify — What Now?

Even if your child doesn’t meet the NHS criteria, they might still benefit from orthodontic treatment. Having straighter teeth can:

Make brushing and cleaning easier, reducing the risk of decay and gum problems
Improve confidence and self-esteem
Create a more comfortable and balanced bite
Enhance overall smile appearance

At Chelwood Dental Leeds, we’re proud to offer private orthodontic options for children, teens, and adults — so you don’t have to miss out on achieving a beautiful, healthy smile.

Orthodontic Options with Dr Rebecca Edwards

Our experienced dentist, Dr Rebecca Edwards, provides a range of orthodontic treatments right here in our friendly Leeds practice.

We offer:

Clear Aligners (such as Invisalign®): Nearly invisible, removable aligners that gently straighten teeth without metal brackets. Perfect for older teens and adults who want a discreet option.
Fixed Braces: Traditional-style braces using modern materials for effective and precise tooth movement — available in both metal and tooth-coloured options.

Dr Rebecca will discuss your goals and assess your or your child’s teeth to recommend the best treatment plan for your needs.