Braces for Children: NHS and Private Options

Braces can make a big difference to a child’s teeth, bite, confidence and long-term dental health. But for many UK parents, the difficult part is understanding how the system works: when a child should be referred, who qualifies for NHS braces, why waiting lists can be long, what private options cost, and whether clear aligners are suitable for children or teenagers.

Not every child with crooked teeth needs braces, and not every child who would like straighter teeth qualifies for NHS orthodontic treatment. NHS braces are mainly for children and teenagers with a clear dental health need. Private orthodontics offers more choice and often faster access, but it can be expensive.

This guide explains NHS and private braces for children in the UK, including eligibility, IOTN scoring, referral age, treatment types, costs, waiting lists, clear aligners, risks, cleaning, retainers and questions to ask before choosing treatment.

You may also find these related guides useful: Children’s Teeth: Complete UK Parent Guide, Tooth Decay in Children, Invisalign and Clear Aligners in the UK, How to Choose a Dentist in the UK and What Makes a Good Dental Practice?.

What are braces?

Braces are orthodontic appliances used to move teeth into better positions. They may improve crowding, spacing, bite problems, protruding teeth, impacted teeth, crossbites, overbites, underbites and other alignment issues.

Orthodontic treatment is not always just cosmetic. In some children, braces can make teeth easier to clean, reduce the risk of trauma to very prominent front teeth, improve biting function, help adult teeth come through properly, or support long-term dental health.

However, braces are not risk-free. They require time, cooperation and good cleaning. If a child does not brush well or frequently consumes sugary drinks and snacks during treatment, braces can increase the risk of tooth decay, gum problems and permanent white marks on the teeth.

When should a child be assessed for braces?

Most children do not need a full orthodontic assessment until several adult teeth have come through, often around age 10 to 12. However, some problems should be spotted earlier by a dentist, especially if they affect tooth eruption, jaw growth or bite development.

A dentist may suggest orthodontic referral if your child has:

• Severe crowding.
• Very prominent front teeth.
• Adult teeth not coming through as expected.
• Impacted teeth.
• A crossbite.
• An underbite.
• An open bite.
• A deep overbite causing trauma to the gums or palate.
• Missing adult teeth.
• Extra teeth.
• Early loss of baby teeth affecting space.
• Thumb sucking or dummy habits affecting the bite.

Some children benefit from early monitoring rather than immediate braces. Others may need interceptive treatment before all adult teeth have come through. Your dentist can advise whether a referral is needed now or whether it is better to review growth and tooth development later.

Are braces available on the NHS for children?

Yes. NHS orthodontic treatment is available for young people under 18 at no cost if there is a clear dental health need. The NHS explains that orthodontic treatment is free for people under 18 with a clear health need, but there can be a long waiting list because demand is high. The NHS uses a rating system called the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need, or IOTN, to assess eligibility.

NHS orthodontic care is not usually provided for mild cosmetic concerns. A child may have teeth that are slightly crooked or spaced but still not meet the threshold for NHS-funded braces.

NHS dental care is generally free for children under 18, or under 19 if in full-time education. Orthodontic treatment follows additional eligibility rules because it is funded only when the orthodontic need is clinically significant.

What is IOTN?

IOTN stands for Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need. It is a scoring system used to decide whether a child qualifies for NHS orthodontic treatment. It helps prioritise limited NHS orthodontic resources for children who are most likely to benefit on dental health grounds.

IOTN has two parts:

• Dental Health Component: this looks at the clinical severity of the bite or tooth position problem.
• Aesthetic Component: this considers appearance in some borderline cases.

In simple terms, children with more severe orthodontic problems are more likely to qualify for NHS treatment. Children with mild irregularity, small gaps or mild crowding may not qualify, even if the family would prefer straighter teeth.

Which children are more likely to qualify for NHS braces?

NHS eligibility is decided by the orthodontist using IOTN, but children are more likely to qualify if they have a moderate to severe orthodontic need.

Examples may include:

• Severe crowding affecting tooth eruption or dental health.
• Impacted teeth that cannot come through normally.
• Very prominent front teeth with increased trauma risk.
• Significant overbite, underbite, crossbite or open bite.
• Missing teeth requiring orthodontic planning.
• Teeth biting into the gum or palate.
• Severe spacing or tooth position problems affecting function.
• Cleft lip and palate or other complex developmental issues.

This does not mean every child with one of these features automatically qualifies. The orthodontist has to assess the full mouth, bite, dental development and IOTN score.

Which children may not qualify for NHS braces?

A child may not qualify for NHS braces if the problem is considered mild or mainly cosmetic.

Examples may include:

• Mild crowding.
• Small gaps between teeth.
• Slightly rotated teeth.
• Minor cosmetic alignment concerns.
• A bite that looks imperfect but does not meet the NHS clinical threshold.
• Cases where oral hygiene is too poor to start safely.
• Cases where the child is not ready or willing to cooperate with treatment.

If your child does not qualify for NHS braces, the orthodontist may still explain private options. Private treatment is not automatically better, but it may be available for milder cosmetic cases or for families who want faster access or different appliance choices.

How does the NHS braces referral process work?

The usual route starts with your child’s dentist. If the dentist thinks your child may need orthodontic treatment, they can refer them to an NHS orthodontic provider for assessment.

The process usually looks like this:

1. Your child attends a routine dental check-up.
2. The dentist notices a possible orthodontic problem.
3. The dentist makes an orthodontic referral if appropriate.
4. Your child is assessed by an orthodontist.
5. The orthodontist checks dental development, bite, oral hygiene and IOTN score.
6. You are told whether your child qualifies for NHS orthodontic treatment.
7. If they qualify, they may join a waiting list or begin planning depending on local availability.
8. If they do not qualify, private options may be discussed.

Some children are assessed but told to wait because more adult teeth need to come through before treatment can begin. This does not always mean they have been refused. It may simply be too early to start.

How long is the NHS braces waiting list?

NHS orthodontic waiting times vary widely. Some children may wait months, while others may wait much longer depending on local demand, provider availability and referral volumes.

There can be two types of waiting:

• Waiting for assessment: the time between referral and seeing an orthodontist.
• Waiting for treatment: the time after being accepted for NHS braces before treatment starts.

Ask the orthodontic practice what the current local waiting time is. It can change and may differ even between nearby practices.

Can you choose where your child is referred?

In many areas, your dentist may be able to discuss referral options, but availability depends on local NHS orthodontic contracts and waiting lists. Some practices may not be accepting new NHS orthodontic referrals at a given time.

If waiting times are very long, you can ask:

• Which orthodontic providers are available locally?
• Can my child be referred to another provider with a shorter waiting list?
• Is my child too young to start yet?
• Does my child clearly meet the NHS criteria?
• Would private assessment give us more information sooner?

Be careful not to start private treatment before fully understanding whether this affects NHS options. Ask the orthodontist directly if you are considering switching route.

What type of braces do children usually get on the NHS?

NHS orthodontic treatment usually uses appliances that are clinically effective and appropriate for the child’s problem. In many cases, this means fixed metal braces.

NHS treatment may include:

• Fixed metal braces.
• Removable appliances in selected cases.
• Functional appliances for some bite problems.
• Retainers after treatment.

NHS treatment is designed to meet clinical need. It is not usually intended to provide cosmetic appliance choices such as ceramic braces, lingual braces or clear aligners purely for appearance.

What private braces options are available for children?

Private orthodontics can offer a wider range of appliances, shorter waiting times and more flexibility. Suitability depends on your child’s teeth, bite, age, maturity and oral hygiene.

Fixed metal braces

Fixed metal braces are the traditional option. They use brackets attached to the teeth and wires that gradually move teeth into position.

They are often suitable for a wide range of orthodontic problems and do not rely on the child remembering to wear them, although cleaning and diet still matter.

Ceramic braces

Ceramic braces work similarly to metal braces but use tooth-coloured or clear brackets, making them less visible. They are usually private.

They may be popular with older children and teenagers who are self-conscious about appearance. They can be more expensive than metal braces and may be slightly more delicate.

Lingual braces

Lingual braces are fitted behind the teeth, making them less visible from the front. They are usually private and can be expensive.

They are not suitable for every child and can be harder to clean. They may also affect speech and tongue comfort at first.

Clear aligners

Clear aligners are removable plastic trays that gradually move teeth. Invisalign is the best-known brand, but there are others.

Aligners can work well for some teenagers, but they require excellent cooperation. They must be worn for the recommended number of hours per day, removed for eating and drinking anything except water, cleaned properly, and not lost.

Clear aligners are not suitable for every orthodontic problem. More complex bite issues, impacted teeth or severe rotations may need fixed braces or specialist treatment planning.

NHS braces vs private braces

How much do private braces cost for children in the UK?

Private children’s braces vary widely in price. Costs depend on the child’s bite, treatment complexity, appliance type, length of treatment, location, scans, retainers and what is included in the package.

These are broad guide prices only. Always ask for a written treatment plan that clearly explains the total cost and what is included.

What should be included in a private braces quote?

Before agreeing to private orthodontic treatment, ask exactly what is included. A cheaper quote is not always cheaper if scans, repairs, retainers or reviews are charged separately.

Ask whether the fee includes:

• Initial consultation.
• X-rays.
• Digital scans or impressions.
• Photos.
• Treatment planning.
• All brace fittings and adjustments.
• Emergency appointments for breakages.
• Replacement brackets or aligners.
• Retainers after treatment.
• Retainer reviews.
• Refinements or finishing aligners.
• Hygiene appointments, if offered.
• Payment plan fees or interest.

Also ask what happens if treatment takes longer than expected, your child loses aligners, breaks brackets repeatedly, or does not wear retainers after treatment.

Are clear aligners suitable for children?

Clear aligners may be suitable for some older children and teenagers, especially those with mild to moderate alignment issues and good compliance. They are less suitable for children who forget things, lose appliances, snack frequently, drink sugary drinks, or struggle with brushing.

Aligners must usually be worn for most of the day and night. They need to be removed for eating and drinking anything except water. Teeth should be cleaned before aligners are put back in, otherwise plaque and sugar can be trapped against the teeth.

Clear aligners may not be ideal for:

• Severe crowding.
• Complex bite problems.
• Impacted teeth.
• Children who are not ready to wear them consistently.
• Children with poor brushing habits.
• Children who frequently lose removable appliances.

For more detail, read: Invisalign and Clear Aligners in the UK.

What age is best for braces?

There is no single best age for every child. Many children start comprehensive braces treatment between ages 11 and 14, when most adult teeth have come through but growth is still continuing.

Some children need earlier assessment or interceptive treatment around ages 7 to 10, especially if there are bite problems, impacted teeth, crossbites or habits affecting development.

Other children are better monitored until more teeth erupt. Starting too early can mean longer treatment, more appointments and more risk of hygiene problems if the child is not ready.

What happens before braces are fitted?

Before braces, the orthodontist needs to assess whether treatment is safe, suitable and likely to work.

This may include:

• Checking teeth and gums.
• Reviewing dental development.
• Checking oral hygiene.
• Looking at the bite.
• Taking X-rays.
• Taking photographs.
• Taking impressions or digital scans.
• Discussing treatment options.
• Explaining risks and responsibilities.

Any tooth decay or gum inflammation should usually be managed before braces start. Braces on unhealthy teeth can make problems worse.

Why oral hygiene matters before braces

Braces create extra plaque traps. If a child already struggles to brush well, orthodontic treatment can increase the risk of permanent white marks, tooth decay and gum swelling.

An orthodontist may delay treatment if oral hygiene is poor. This is not punishment; it is to protect the teeth.

Before braces, your child should be able to:

• Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
• Brush carefully around the gumline.
• Limit sugary snacks and drinks.
• Attend routine dental check-ups.
• Accept help or reminders if needed.

If your child has had cavities recently, read: Tooth Decay in Children.

Do children need teeth removed before braces?

Some children need teeth removed as part of orthodontic treatment, but many do not. Extractions may be considered if there is severe crowding, protrusion, impacted teeth, poor tooth prognosis or specific bite problems.

If extractions are recommended, ask:

• Why are extractions needed?
• Which teeth would be removed?
• Are there non-extraction options?
• What happens if we do not remove teeth?
• Will this affect the face or smile?
• Is a second opinion reasonable?

Extraction decisions should be explained clearly and supported by proper orthodontic assessment.

How long do children wear braces?

Many comprehensive braces treatments take around 18 to 24 months, but the exact time varies. Simple cases may be shorter. Complex cases may take longer.

Treatment length depends on:

• Severity of the bite problem.
• Type of brace.
• Growth and tooth eruption.
• Appointment attendance.
• Broken brackets or lost appliances.
• Elastic wear if needed.
• Oral hygiene and gum health.
• Whether refinements are needed.

Missed appointments and repeated breakages can delay treatment.

Do braces hurt?

Braces should not be sharply painful, but soreness is common after they are fitted or adjusted. Teeth may ache for a few days as they start to move. The lips and cheeks may also feel irritated at first.

Helpful measures include:

• Soft foods for a few days after fitting or adjustments.
• Orthodontic wax for rubbing brackets.
• Suitable pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen if appropriate.
• Following the orthodontist’s advice.

Severe pain, swelling, trauma, broken wires digging in, or signs of infection should be checked.

What foods should children avoid with braces?

Fixed braces can break if children eat very hard, sticky or chewy foods. Breakages can delay treatment and may cost extra privately.

Foods to be careful with include:

• Hard sweets.
• Chewing gum.
• Toffees and sticky sweets.
• Popcorn kernels.
• Ice cubes.
• Hard crusty bread.
• Whole apples bitten directly.
• Hard nuts.
• Sticky cereal bars.

Apples, carrots and similar foods can usually be cut into small pieces rather than bitten directly.

Cleaning teeth with braces

Cleaning is one of the most important parts of orthodontic treatment. Braces do not damage teeth by themselves; plaque left around braces does.

Children with braces should:

• Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
• Brush around every bracket and along the gumline.
• Use interdental brushes if advised.
• Clean under wires carefully.
• Use disclosing tablets if helpful to show missed plaque.
• Limit sugary drinks and snacks.
• Attend dental check-ups as well as orthodontic appointments.
• See a hygienist if recommended.

White marks around brackets can be permanent. They are early enamel damage caused by plaque and acid. Good cleaning and fluoride help reduce the risk.

Can children have scale and polish during braces?

Yes, dental cleaning may be useful during orthodontic treatment, especially if plaque and gum inflammation are building up. Your child should still attend routine dental check-ups while seeing the orthodontist.

Some children benefit from hygienist appointments during braces, particularly if they struggle to clean around brackets. Read more: Scale and Polish: NHS vs Private.

What happens if a bracket or wire breaks?

Broken brackets and wires are common, especially in the first few months while children learn what foods to avoid.

If something breaks:

• Contact the orthodontic practice for advice.
• Use orthodontic wax if a wire or bracket rubs.
• Do not pull wires out unless advised.
• Avoid hard or sticky foods until repaired.
• Seek urgent advice if a wire is digging in badly or causing injury.

Repeated breakages can lengthen treatment. Private practices may charge for repeated repairs, depending on the agreement.

What are retainers?

Retainers are appliances worn after braces to keep teeth in their new position. They are not optional. Teeth naturally try to move after orthodontic treatment, and retainers help prevent relapse.

Retainers may be:

• Removable retainers: clear plastic or wire-and-acrylic retainers worn as instructed.
• Fixed retainers: thin wires bonded behind the front teeth.
• Combination retainers: fixed and removable retainers used together.

Your orthodontist will explain how often retainers should be worn. Many people need long-term night-time retainer wear to maintain results.

What happens if a child does not wear retainers?

Teeth can move back. This can happen quickly in some children and teenagers. If retainers are lost, broken or not worn, contact the orthodontic practice as soon as possible.

Replacement retainers may cost extra, even after NHS treatment if retainers are lost or damaged beyond repair.

Risks of braces for children

Braces are common and generally safe when properly planned, but parents should understand the risks.

Possible risks include:

• Temporary soreness after fitting or adjustments.
• Ulcers or rubbing from brackets and wires.
• Permanent white marks if plaque is not removed.
• Tooth decay during treatment.
• Gum inflammation.
• Root shortening in some cases.
• Teeth moving back if retainers are not worn.
• Longer treatment if appliances break or appointments are missed.
• Unsatisfactory results if cooperation is poor.

The biggest everyday risk for many children is poor cleaning. Braces require a serious commitment from both child and parent.

When should braces be delayed?

Braces may need to be delayed if:

• Baby teeth still need to fall out.
• More adult teeth need to erupt.
• Tooth decay is untreated.
• Gums are inflamed.
• Oral hygiene is poor.
• The child is not ready to cooperate.
• Medical or developmental needs require a different plan.
• The orthodontist wants to monitor growth first.

Waiting can be frustrating, but starting at the wrong time can make treatment longer, harder or less successful.

Can private treatment be started while waiting for NHS braces?

Some families consider private treatment because NHS waiting lists are long. This can be reasonable, but ask clear questions first.

Before starting private treatment, ask:

• Would my child qualify for NHS braces?
• Are we already on an NHS waiting list?
• If we start privately, can we later switch to NHS treatment?
• Will private treatment affect NHS eligibility?
• Is the proposed private treatment comprehensive or limited cosmetic treatment?
• What happens if treatment becomes more complex than expected?

Do not assume you can start privately and then move seamlessly to NHS care later. Ask the orthodontic provider before making decisions.

Private braces: payment plans and finance

Many private orthodontic practices offer monthly payment plans. Some are interest-free over a set period, while others involve finance agreements.

Before agreeing, check:

• Total treatment cost.
• Deposit amount.
• Monthly payment amount.
• Whether interest is charged.
• What happens if treatment stops early.
• Whether missed appointments or breakages cost extra.
• Whether retainers are included.
• Whether refinements are included.

Orthodontic treatment can take years, so understand the financial commitment before starting.

Can children get braces if they have tooth decay?

Usually, active decay should be treated before braces start. Braces make cleaning harder, so untreated cavities can worsen quickly during treatment.

If your child has had decay, the orthodontist may ask for:

• Confirmation from the dentist that teeth are stable.
• Improved brushing before treatment starts.
• Diet changes.
• Fluoride varnish or stronger prevention support.
• More frequent dental reviews during braces.

It is better to delay braces than to start treatment with teeth at high risk of decay.

Braces and children with additional needs

Some children with additional needs can have orthodontic treatment successfully, but planning may need extra care. This may include children with autism, ADHD, learning disabilities, sensory sensitivities, physical disabilities, medical conditions or anxiety.

Important questions include:

• Can the child tolerate appointments?
• Can they cope with brackets, wires or removable appliances?
• Can they clean well enough?
• Will they wear elastics, aligners or retainers?
• Would treatment improve function or mainly appearance?
• Would the burden of treatment outweigh the benefit?

A good orthodontist will consider the child as a whole, not just the teeth.

Questions to ask at an orthodontic assessment

Take a list of questions to your child’s orthodontic appointment.

• Does my child qualify for NHS orthodontic treatment?
• What is their IOTN score?
• What problem are we trying to correct?
• Is treatment needed now, or should we wait?
• What type of brace is recommended?
• Are extractions needed?
• How long is treatment likely to take?
• What are the risks?
• What happens if oral hygiene is poor?
• How often will appointments be needed?
• What happens if brackets break?
• What retainers will be needed?
• How long will retainers need to be worn?
• If private, what is included in the cost?
• If NHS, what are the waiting times?

Red flags to watch out for

Be cautious if a provider:

• Promises perfect teeth without explaining risks.
• Starts treatment without checking decay and gum health.
• Does not explain NHS eligibility if your child may qualify.
• Pushes private treatment without discussing waiting list or NHS options.
• Offers aligners without checking whether your child will wear them properly.
• Does not explain retainers.
• Does not provide a written cost breakdown.
• Does not explain what happens if treatment fails or takes longer.
• Ignores poor brushing before starting braces.

When should you get a second opinion?

Consider a second opinion if:

• Your child has been refused NHS braces and you do not understand why.
• You have been told several teeth need removing.
• The private quote is expensive.
• You are unsure whether aligners or fixed braces are better.
• Your child is very young and early treatment is being recommended.
• Your child has complex dental development problems.
• You feel pressured into starting private treatment quickly.

A second opinion can be especially helpful before extractions, complex private treatment or aligner treatment for teenagers.

How to choose an orthodontist for your child

Orthodontic treatment can last several years, so choose carefully. You want a provider who explains options clearly, handles children well and gives realistic expectations.

Look for:

• GDC registration.
• Specialist orthodontist status where appropriate.
• Experience treating children and teenagers.
• Clear NHS and private explanations.
• Transparent costs.
• Good communication with parents and children.
• Strong focus on oral hygiene and prevention.
• Clear retainer policy.
• No pressure selling.

You can browse local dental providers through All Health and Care, including our Top 10 Dentists in the UK and local pages such as Top 10 Dentists in London.

Final thoughts

Braces for children can be life-changing, but the best route depends on the child’s clinical need, age, dental development, oral hygiene, maturity and family budget.

NHS braces are free for children under 18 who meet the clinical eligibility criteria, but waiting lists can be long and appliance choice is usually limited. Private braces can offer faster access and more choice, but costs can be significant and not every private option is suitable for every child.

The most important thing is to start with a proper assessment. Ask why treatment is needed, whether your child qualifies for NHS care, what the alternatives are, what the risks are, and how retainers will work afterwards.

Braces are not just about straight teeth. They are a commitment to cleaning, appointments, diet changes, cooperation and long-term retention. When planned well, they can support a healthier, more confident smile for years to come.

For more patient-friendly dental guides, visit our Dental Health & Dentistry section.

Frequently asked questions about braces for children

Are braces free for children on the NHS?

NHS orthodontic treatment is free for children under 18 if they have a clear clinical need and meet the eligibility criteria.

What is IOTN?

IOTN stands for Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need. It is the scoring system used to assess whether a child qualifies for NHS braces.

Do all children with crooked teeth qualify for NHS braces?

No. Mild crowding, small gaps or cosmetic concerns may not meet the NHS threshold for treatment.

What age should children be referred for braces?

Many children are assessed around age 10 to 12, but some need earlier referral if there are bite problems, impacted teeth or abnormal dental development.

Can my child get NHS braces if they are already 18?

NHS orthodontic treatment is generally for under-18s with clinical need. If your child is close to 18, ask your dentist or orthodontist for advice as soon as possible.

How long is the NHS braces waiting list?

Waiting times vary by area and provider. Some children wait months, while others wait much longer. Ask the orthodontic practice for current local times.

What type of braces are used on the NHS?

NHS treatment commonly uses fixed metal braces, although the appliance depends on the child’s clinical needs.

Can my child have Invisalign on the NHS?

Clear aligners are not usually provided as standard NHS orthodontic treatment. They are usually a private option.

Are clear aligners suitable for teenagers?

They can be suitable for some teenagers, but only if the case is appropriate and the teenager will wear them as instructed.

How much do private braces cost for children?

Private braces commonly cost around £2,000 to £6,000+, depending on complexity, appliance type and what is included.

Are private braces better than NHS braces?

Not necessarily. NHS braces are clinically effective for eligible cases. Private treatment mainly offers more choice, faster access and treatment for cases that may not qualify on the NHS.

Can my child switch from NHS to private braces?

Sometimes, but you should ask the orthodontist how this affects treatment, costs and NHS eligibility before making changes.

Can my child start private treatment while waiting for NHS braces?

You should ask the orthodontist first. Starting private treatment may affect NHS options, and switching later may not be straightforward.

Do braces hurt?

Braces can cause soreness for a few days after fitting or adjustment, but they should not cause severe pain. Contact the orthodontist if pain is severe or a wire is digging in.

How long do children wear braces?

Many children wear braces for around 18 to 24 months, but simple cases may be shorter and complex cases may take longer.

Will my child need teeth removed for braces?

Some children need extractions, but many do not. Ask why extractions are recommended and whether alternatives exist.

Can braces damage teeth?

Braces do not usually damage teeth when cleaning is good. Poor brushing can cause permanent white marks, decay and gum inflammation.

What are white marks after braces?

White marks are early enamel damage caused by plaque and acid around brackets. They can be permanent, so prevention is important.

Can my child have braces if they have cavities?

Active tooth decay should usually be treated before braces start. Braces make cleaning harder, so untreated decay can worsen.

Do children still need dental check-ups during braces?

Yes. Orthodontic appointments do not replace routine dental check-ups.

Can children see a hygienist during braces?

Yes. Hygienist appointments can help children who struggle to clean around brackets and wires.

What foods should children avoid with braces?

Avoid hard, sticky and chewy foods such as toffees, chewing gum, hard sweets, popcorn kernels and biting directly into hard apples.

What happens if a bracket breaks?

Contact the orthodontic practice. Use orthodontic wax if it rubs, and avoid hard or sticky foods until repaired.

Do children need retainers after braces?

Yes. Retainers are essential to stop teeth moving back after braces.

How long do retainers need to be worn?

Your orthodontist will advise, but many people need long-term night-time retainer wear to maintain results.

What happens if my child loses their retainer?

Contact the orthodontic practice quickly. Teeth can move, and replacement retainers may cost extra.

Can children with additional needs have braces?

Sometimes. Suitability depends on the child’s ability to tolerate treatment, clean well, attend appointments and wear appliances or retainers.

Should I get a second opinion before private braces?

It can be sensible if treatment is expensive, extractions are recommended, aligners are proposed for a complex case, or you are unsure about NHS eligibility.