For children and teenagers with crowded or crooked teeth, the prospect of obtaining braces through the NHS can be a game-changer. Straight teeth not only enhance confidence but also simplify oral care.
Due to limited availability, in order to receive NHS orthodontic treatment a child is required to meet specific criteria using the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need. If the child does meet the criteria, then a lengthy waiting lists may lead to many teens outgrowing their eligibility before receiving treatment.
In response, some parents are opting for private orthodontics right from the start. This enables their child to start treatment quickly with a local orthodontist.
We’ve outlined how NHS orthodontics could benefit your teenager below.
Who Qualifies for NHS Braces?
For your teenager to receive NHS orthodontic treatment, they must meet the following requirements:
Securing a Referral for NHS Orthodontics
Your general dentist will monitor the development of your child’s teeth and assess the need for any orthodontic treatment. This typically begins around the age of 12.
If you believe your teenager might benefit from orthodontics then discuss this with your dentist, who can carry out an evaluation to determine if your teenager should be added to the NHS waiting list.
Understanding the IOTN Criteria:
Teens with grade 4 and 5 issues will be referred to an orthodontist, while those with grade 3 issues may be evaluated by your dentist.
Aesthetic Component Assessment
This assessment considers the aesthetic benefits of orthodontics. Using 10 colour photographs showing varying levels of dental attractiveness, your orthodontist will match the patients current smile to these images. If they receive a rating of 6 or higher and also have grade 3 imperfections, they will qualify for free treatment.
If your teenager has grade 3 imperfections and is deemed unsuitable for NHS orthodontics, seeking private treatment is a common alternative. Grade 3 doesn’t mean that braces wouldn’t be beneficial; it simply means that they aren’t available via the NHS.
Navigating Waiting Times
The current waiting time for an assessment for NHS braces is approximately two years. With a further waiting list to start treatment ranging for 1-2 years.
Considering the extended waiting times, some parents choose private orthodontics immediately to ensure timely treatment and avoid further misalignment.
At Evolve Dentistry, we offer private orthodontic options for children starting at just £1,750.
Benefits of Private Orthodontics
We understand that your child’s oral health is of utmost importance. Opting for private orthodontics provides several advantages:
If your teenager is currently on the NHS waiting list for orthodontics and you’d like to find out more about treatment with Lisa our Orthodontist, get in touch with our team to book a consultation today.
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✨ Curious about composite bonding?
In this video, Dr. Maggie Nichols from Evolve Dentistry explains what composite bonding is, how it works, and why it’s such a popular choice for enhancing your smile.
Whether you’re looking to repair chips, close small gaps, or improve the shape of your teeth – composite bonding offers a quick, effective, and minimally invasive solution with beautiful results.
Ready to explore if bonding is right for you? We’re here to help.
#EvolveDentistry #CompositeBonding #SmileMakeover #CosmeticDentistry #PortisheadDentist #ConfidentSmile #DrMaggieNichols #ToothBonding
A Fresh Start This Autumn
Thinking of joining a new dental practice or finally addressing that cosmetic concern?
September offers the perfect opportunity – but appointments are in high demand.
Whether it`s general dental care or cosmetic treatments such as veneers, teeth straightening or whitening, our experienced team is ready to support your journey.
🗓 Secure your consultation now to avoid disappointment.
😁✨ Thinking about straightening your teeth but not sure where to start?
In this video, Rachael from Evolve Dentistry talks you through the teeth straightening options we offer and how we can help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted – comfortably and discreetly.
From nearly invisible aligners to fixed brace systems, we’ll guide you through the best solution tailored to your needs and lifestyle.
🎥 Watch now to hear Rachael explain your options and how we make the process smooth, supportive, and stress-free.
📍Book a consultation today – your straighter smile starts here!
#EvolveDentistry #TeethStraightening #Invisalign #SmileTransformation #PortisheadDentist #ClearBraces #Orthodontics #ConfidentSmile
How Sedation Dentistry Can Help You Feel Relaxed
If dental appointments make you feel anxious or overwhelmed, you’re not alone. At Evolve Dentistry, we believe everyone deserves access to comfortable, stress-free dental care. That’s why we offer sedation dentistry in Portishead.
Sedation dentistry involves using medication to help you feel deeply relaxed during your treatment. While you’re still awake and able to respond, you’ll feel calm and often have little to no memory of the procedure afterwards.
Sedation can be an excellent option if:
- You experience severe dental anxiety
- You have a strong gag reflex
- You need a complex or lengthy treatment
- You’ve avoided the dentist for years due to fear
At Evolve Dentistry, our experienced team will carefully assess your needs and discuss the sedation options available to you. Your safety and comfort are always our top priorities, and we take the time to explain each step so you know exactly what to expect.
By choosing sedation dentistry in Portishead, you can finally receive the dental care you need without the fear or worry. Many of our patients tell us that after trying sedation, they no longer put off their appointments and feel much more confident about their oral health.
If you’ve been avoiding the dentist because of anxiety, we invite you to discover how gentle, compassionate care and sedation options can transform your experience. #sedation #sedationdentist #awardwinning #beyourbestself #Northsomerset #freeconsultation #multiawardwinning #patientsatisfaction #compositebonding #patientsfirst #newpatients #healthysmiles #naturalteeth #acceptingnewpatients #nailsea #portishead #clevedon #portisheadmarina #dentist #dentures
At Evolve Dentistry in Portishead, we understand that visiting the dentist can be a daunting experience for many people. Dental anxiety is incredibly common — and it’s nothing to be ashamed of. Whether you’ve had a bad experience in the past or simply feel nervous about the unknown, we’re here to help you feel safe and supported every step of the way.
As a trusted dentist for nervous patients in Portishead, we’ve built our practice around creating a calm, friendly environment. From the moment you walk through the door, you’ll be greeted by our warm and understanding team who will take the time to listen to your concerns.
Our gentle approach starts with communication. We believe that explaining treatments clearly and answering all your questions helps to ease anxiety. We never rush appointments — we give you the time you need to feel comfortable.
We also offer a variety of techniques to help you relax, including Calma Lamba, calming music, and breathing techniques. For patients who need extra support, we can also discuss sedation options.
Don’t let fear stop you from getting the dental care you need. At Evolve Dentistry, we’re dedicated to making sure every visit is as stress-free as possible.
If you’re looking for a dentist for nervous patients in Portishead, we’re here to help you regain confidence in your smile — and in visiting the dentist.
#awardwinning #Northsomerset #freeconsultation #multiawardwinning #compositebonding #patientsatisfaction #patientsfirst #orthodontist #newpatients #healthysmiles #naturalteeth #healthysmile #smilemakeovers #acceptingnewpatients #nailsea #portishead #clevedon #toothwhitening #whitening #hygienist #portisheadmarina #dentist #dentures #braces #hometoothwhitening
🚴♀️ She hasn’t ridden a bike in 10 years… and now she’s training for a huge charity challenge!
Our principal, Carol Somerville Roberts, is getting back in the saddle to take on an epic bike ride next year in aid of @Bridge2Aid – helping provide vital dental training and care in communities that need it most. 💙
This video was taken just before her very first training ride – give her some love and encouragement in the comments! 🙌
You can support Carol’s fundraising journey by donating via the link in our bio. Every pound will help change lives. 💫
#EvolveDentistry #Bridge2Aid #CharityChallenge #Fundraising #BackInTheSaddle #SmileForACause #CharityBikeRide