We are very fortunate as a nation to have the NHS but, as with all medical treatments and procedures, at any age, we may be put on a waiting list or denied treatment if it is considered purely cosmetic.  Braces are in high demand as more and more people want straight teeth and a beautiful smile.  Unfortunately, some teenagers are missing out. Although the law states,  “Orthodontic treatment is available on the NHS (for free) for under 18-year-olds, who need it,” and the law is seemingly unambiguous, some teenagers are still denied braces.  If your teenager has been refused orthodontic treatment on the NHS and you are at a loss to know what to do, the Straight Teeth Suite in Leicester can step in to give your child the braces they need, and ease the pressure on your finances.

The let out clause in the law, “who need it,”  allows NHS Orthodontists to select patients eligible for free treatment by using the IOTN Assessment to determine whether or not your child will receive free braces. The assessment is comprised of a health component and an aesthetic component and is marked on a scale of 1 to 5; 1 being closest to dental perfection and 5 being severe dental issues, such as protruding teeth, overcrowding or missing teeth.  Naturally, those young patients with a high score are going to be first in line when treatment has to be rationed on dental health grounds.  The NHS does not have unlimited resources. This may seem unfair, especially if the young patient just misses out with a borderline score.

If your child has been denied NHS orthodontic treatment or has been put on an unreasonably long waiting list and you consider this unfair, you should speak to your family dentist and arrange for a second opinion.

Alternatively, you could seek private treatment. Even if your child’s need is purely cosmetic, it is no less valid.  Straight, well-functioning  teeth do wonders for their confidence.   We have a selection of options to straighten your child’s teeth from fixed braces to clear, removable braces.  If the problem with the teeth is relatively simple to resolve, the treatment will not take too long and may well cost a lot less than you first imagined.

We are well aware many parent’s budgets are stretched to their limits when bringing up children and private dental treatment may seem out of the question.  We have put together a financial plan to ease the burden so you and your children can receive treatment when you want it, without delay.

No child should be denied a beautiful and confident smile. Contact the Straight Teeth Suite in Leicester for a consultation today.

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