What does NHS orthodontic treatment include?
If you're weighing up NHS braces and private treatment, it helps to know exactly what NHS care includes – and what it doesn’t. We're here to explain all, so you can feel confident about your next steps.

At Splash Orthodontics, we offer NHS treatment for eligible patients under 18. From your first visit to your final retainer, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
There are two ways to access an NHS assessment:
- Your child’s dentist can refer them for a complimentary NHS assessment
- Or you can book a private consultation with us for £99 – this includes a private quote and a full NHS assessment with one of our specialist orthodontists
If your child qualifies, NHS treatment covers everything they need for a straighter, healthier smile.
What’s included in NHS orthodontic care?
NHS treatment is available for children and teens who need braces for health reasons – for example, to correct bite problems or more severe misalignments.
If your child is eligible, their treatment will include:
- A full assessment with one of our specialist orthodontists
- Any X-rays, photographs or digital scans needed
- Functional appliances and/or fixed metal braces
- Regular adjustments to keep everything on track
- Extractions, if they’re needed to make space for the teeth to move
- Removable retainers at the end of treatment to help maintain their new smile
There’s often a waiting list for NHS braces, so if your child qualifies, we’ll let you know what to expect and keep you updated throughout.
What’s not included?
NHS treatment covers all the essentials for a healthy smile, but it doesn’t include cosmetic options like clear brackets, Invisalign, Angel Aligners or fixed retainers. If you’re looking for something a little more discreet, we can chat through our private treatment options. We offer flexible payment plans, shorter waiting times and a wider choice of brace types.
What if my child doesn’t qualify?
If your child doesn’t meet the NHS criteria, don’t worry – we’ll explain everything clearly and talk you through the alternatives. There’s absolutely no pressure, and we’ll only recommend what’s right for your child.
Getting started with NHS braces
Your child can be referred by their dentist, or you can book a private consultation with us directly. This includes a full NHS assessment, along with expert advice on the best next steps for your child’s smile.
To learn more about NHS treatment and how we can help, explore our website or get in touch with our friendly team in Hove – we’re always happy to help.