Family Friendly & Specialty Dentists in London, UK
Discover the secrets to unlock the doors of the labyrinthine National Health Service and secure the orthodontic care you crave by following the steps below:
It all starts with finding a General Dental Practitioner (GDP). Your journey to orthodontic nirvana begins by registering with a local GDP. Word of mouth, online reviews, or a simple search on the NHS website will provide you with the names of suitable practitioners in your area. Once you've registered, it's time to make an appointment. The waiting time is usually 4-12 weeks. You can usually get seen quicker in private practice.
Upon arrival at your appointment, you'll undergo a thorough dental examination, where your GDP will assess your orthodontic needs. Be prepared for probing questions about your dental history, and perhaps even an X-ray or two. If your GDP determines that orthodontic treatment is necessary, they will refer you to an NHS orthodontist.
This is where things can get tricky. There are two types of NHS orthodontic referrals: the IOTN (Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need) and the AC (Aesthetic Component). The IOTN focuses on the severity of your dental problem, while the AC is all about appearances (read more here). If your dental issues fall into the higher IOTN grades, you'll be prioritised for NHS orthodontic treatment. However, if your problems are deemed more cosmetic, you may have to consider private treatment.
Once your referral has been submitted, you'll likely face a waiting period. In London, waiting times can vary greatly between boroughs, with some patients waiting several months or even years for treatment. Fret not, though! Use this time to brush up on your dental hygiene routine and prepare for your orthodontic adventure (read more here).
When your moment of glory finally arrives, you'll meet with an NHS orthodontist who will assess your specific needs and develop a treatment plan. This is your opportunity to ask questions and ensure you're fully informed about the process. Remember, knowledge is power, especially when it comes to your teeth!
If you're deemed eligible for NHS orthodontic treatment, congratulations! You'll soon embark on a journey to a straighter, healthier smile. If not, don't lose heart. Remember that perfect alignment of your child’s teeth is central to them having a beautiful and healthy smile for the rest of their life. Just fill the form below and our experienced specialist orthodontist will be very happy to see your child (read about treatment costs).
Now that you're armed with the knowledge to navigate the NHS's orthodontic offerings in London, why not put that newfound wisdom to good use? Go forth and conquer the healthcare system, but before you do, don't forget to fill in the form below. I promise it's easier than navigating the Tube during rush hour!
You can search for local GDPs on the NHS website or ask for recommendations from friends and family. Online reviews can also be helpful in choosing the right practitioner.
The IOTN (Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need) focuses on the severity of your dental problem, while the AC (Aesthetic Component) is concerned with the cosmetic aspect of your teeth. Higher IOTN grades are prioritised for NHS orthodontic treatment.
Waiting times for orthodontic treatment in London can vary significantly between boroughs, ranging from several months to years. It's essential to be patient and maintain a good dental hygiene routine during the waiting period.
If you're not eligible for NHS treatment, there are many private orthodontic options available, with flexible payment plans to suit various budgets.
Your GDP will refer you to an NHS orthodontist. While you may not have the same level of choice as with private treatment, rest assured that NHS orthodontists are highly skilled professionals.
While braces are the most common orthodontic treatment, the NHS offers a range of treatments depending on your specific needs. Your orthodontist will discuss the most suitable options for you during your consultation.
