- 020 8656 6959
- Monday to Friday, 9:00am-5:30pm. Saturdays by request only. Sunday: Closed.
Addiscombe Orthodontics · NHS orthodontics
Free NHS orthodontic treatment for under-18s whose teeth meet the NHS criteria, at our practice on Lower Addiscombe Road. This page explains who qualifies and what to expect. For our full range of treatments, see our orthodontist in Croydon page.
NHS orthodontic treatment is funded for young people under 18 whose teeth need correcting for health and function, not just for appearance. To decide this fairly, orthodontists in England use the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN), a scale that grades problems such as crowding, protruding front teeth, deep or open bites, crossbites and missing or impacted teeth.
Children with a significant problem (IOTN grade 4 or 5) normally qualify for NHS treatment, for example teeth that stick out a long way, impacted canines or a marked crossbite.
Moderate problems (grade 3) may qualify when the appearance of the teeth is also rated as significantly affected. We explain exactly where your child sits on the scale.
Mild crowding or small gaps (grades 1 and 2) are not usually funded. Your child can still have treatment privately if you wish, or simply be monitored.
Teeth and gums also need to be healthy, and your child needs to be ready to brush carefully around a brace, before any treatment can start.
No referral yet? Ask your dentist, or call us and we will explain the next steps.
Most NHS cases are treated with fixed metal braces, which are small brackets bonded to the teeth and joined by a wire. Some younger children first wear a removable or functional appliance, such as a Twin Block, to guide jaw growth before braces. Treatment commonly lasts between 18 months and two years, with check-ups every few weeks to adjust the brace.
Retainers are fitted at the end to hold the teeth in place, and wearing them as instructed is an important part of keeping the result. Results vary from person to person. You can see examples of our work in our before & after smile transformations.
If your child’s teeth fall below the NHS threshold, or you would prefer a less visible option, private treatment is available for all ages with 0% finance. Your exact fee is confirmed after your consultation and set out in a written treatment plan.
| Private treatment | Starting price |
|---|---|
| Metal braces | From £1,100 |
| Ceramic (tooth-coloured) braces | From £3,200 |
| AddaSmile clear aligners | From £1,499 |
| Invisalign | From £1,850 |
Older teenagers often ask about clear aligners; read more about Invisalign in Croydon. Parents thinking about their own teeth can find out about adult braces in Croydon. To compare every option, visit our orthodontist in Croydon page.
Yes. If your child is under 18 and their teeth meet the NHS eligibility criteria, orthodontic treatment, including the braces and retainers provided as part of that course of treatment, is free of charge.
Most children are assessed once the majority of their adult teeth have come through, often around the age of 11 to 13. Your dentist may refer earlier if there is a problem that benefits from early attention, such as very prominent upper front teeth.
Usually not. The NHS funds orthodontics according to clinical need, measured using the IOTN scale. Mild crowding or small gaps that are mainly cosmetic do not normally qualify, although private treatment remains an option.
Waiting times for NHS orthodontic treatment vary and can change during the year. Please call us on 020 8656 6959 and we will tell you the current position for new referrals.
NHS orthodontics is generally for under-18s. Adults are usually only treated on the NHS in exceptional circumstances, often through a hospital service. Adults can book a private consultation with us directly.
Speak to the team led by Dr Sarah Sadek, Specialist Orthodontist, about NHS eligibility or private options for your child. Open Monday to Friday, 9:00 to 17:30.
