Currently, our waiting list for NHS assessments is 6–8 months. We’re doing everything we can to reduce this timeframe, but if you need advice sooner, you do have options.

Keep reading to find out why we have a waiting list, and what you can do if you can’t wait for a consultation.

NHS referrals in Brighton & Hove

If your dentist thinks you might be eligible for NHS orthodontic treatment, they’ll refer you to an orthodontist in Brighton & Hove for a free assessment. Unfortunately, you can’t refer yourself for NHS braces.

We receive more referrals than we can see each month, which has led to a waiting list for NHS assessments. This hasn’t been helped by the pandemic and an influx of transfer cases from another orthodontic practice in 2019.

We closed our waiting list briefly in 2019 to catch up with the demand for NHS treatment.

The good news is that once we’ve seen you for your assessment if you’re eligible for NHS braces, we can start your treatment straight away.

What if you can’t wait?

Some cases are more time-sensitive than others. If you need an assessment promptly, your dentist can mark your referral as urgent, and you will join a shorter, priority waiting list.

Alternatively, you can contact us directly to arrange a private consultation with a specialist orthodontist. Private consultations are available to all ages, and we can give you a date for your appointment right away.

During your private consultation, we’ll go through all your treatment options. If you are under 18, we can assess your teeth using the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need to see if you’re eligible for NHS braces.

If you qualify for NHS treatment, in fairness to everyone on our waiting list, we won’t be able to fit your braces immediately. You’ll need to join a treatment waiting list that’s a similar length to our waiting list for consultations.

Paying for your braces privately

If you visit us for a private consultation, we’ll give you quotes for all your preferred treatment options. If you decide to pay for your treatment, there is no waiting list, and we can arrange the next steps as soon as you’re ready.

Self-funded treatment includes a wide choice of braces, including Invisalign and clear fixed braces. You’ll also receive 12 months of aftercare, as well as fixed and removable retainers.

If you have any questions about our waiting list, NHS or private treatment, please don’t hesitate to contact our reception team.

If you’d like to arrange a private children’s consultation, complete our contact form and we’ll call you back to answer any questions and book your appointment.