Orthodontics:
Braces for children and teens
Braces for children and teens
Around a third of children need orthodontic treatment* to fix concerns such as crooked teeth, crowded teeth or bite issues, such as an overbite or underbite. These may be a result of teeth growing in abnormal positions, gaps between teeth or excessive dummy use or thumb sucking.
Having straighter teeth can protect your child’s smile long-term, as they’re easier to clean, making gum disease and tooth decay less likely.
Interested in teeth straightening?
Get in touch with your nearest Bupa practice. They can help you book an orthodontic consultation and answer any queries.
Can children and teens have orthodontics for free?
Under 18s can access free NHS orthodontics if they meet certain criteria. Treatment usually involves fixed metal braces, made up of brackets and wires.
If a dentist thinks your child may benefit from braces, they’ll refer them to a specialist orthodontist who’ll assess if they’re eligible for free NHS care. To make an assessment, they’ll use a scale called the Index of Treatment Need (IOTN).
According to the IOTN, cases with a clinical need for treatment include severe instances of protruding teeth, missing teeth, crowded teeth, and bite concerns, as well as anything that prevents teeth from growing normally. If the child is graded as ‘borderline,’ the cosmetic benefit of braces may be taken into account too.
If your child doesn’t qualify for NHS orthodontics, or would like a more discreet option, private orthodontic treatment is available. Find your nearest Bupa Dental Care practice offering braces privately.
Which braces are available for children and teens?
If your child doesn’t qualify for NHS care, or would like a more discreet option, private orthodontic treatment is available. Private options include:
For under 18s, both NHS and private treatment is always provided by a specialist orthodontist who has undergone additional training.
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At what age can children have braces?
Most commonly, children start their orthodontic treatment between the ages of 10 and 14. Although, there are cases when children will benefit from earlier or later treatment.
Do children's braces always work?
To ensure the success of your child’s treatment, and avoid delays, they’ll need to follow all care instructions provided. If they have fixed braces, this will include avoiding certain hard or sticky foods, which could damage them. If they have removable aligners, this will involve wearing the trays for at least 22 hours a day. Your child’s dentist or orthodontist will provide full guidance and care instructions.
After braces, your child will need to follow their orthodontist’s aftercare advice to keep their teeth straight. This will include wearing a plastic, removable retainer, as instructed.
What colour braces are available?
Fixed metal braces are available in a range of colours, from bright colours to more subtle shades.
Fixed braces have small metal brackets that are attached to your teeth and are moved by a thin wire. The wire is held in place with small elastic bands, which are available in a variety of colours. You can choose anything from transparent to pillar box red.
If you'd like to change colours, the bands can be swapped during your check-up appointments, every six to eight weeks.
A discreet alternative to fixed braces, clear ceramic braces have transparent brackets and tooth-coloured wires. These are available privately.
Learn more about teeth straightening
Brace FAQs
Learn the answers to frequently asked orthodontic questions.
What to expect
Find out what you can expect along your teeth straightening journey.
Caring for your braces
Top tips for looking after your braces, including cleaning advice and foods to avoid.
Fixed Braces
Learn more about fixed braces, including how they work, their benefits and the different types available.
Clear, removable aligners
Clear aligners are thin, transparent trays that can be taken out for brushing, eating and more. They’re a popular choice among children and adults.
Cost of braces
Learn more about the cost of braces and payment options, making treatment more accessible.
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