Advice · 18 October 2026
In short: health service (NHS) braces are free for patients under 18 whose teeth meet the clinical criteria – an IOTN score of 3.6 or above. You need a referral from your dentist. As of October 2026, the wait for a health service assessment at our practice is 6 to 12 months, and treatment then usually starts within 3 to 6 months.
Who qualifies for health service braces?
- Age: we normally only treat patients younger than 18 for health service treatment.
- Clinical need: the teeth must be significantly out of position, measured with a scoring system called IOTN. The health service pays for treatment when the score is 3.6 or above.
What is IOTN?
IOTN (Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need) is the scoring system used to decide who qualifies for health service braces. The orthodontist looks at how far the teeth and bite are out of position. A lower score does not mean braces will not help – it means the health service will not pay for them.
How do I get referred?
For health service treatment, your own dentist needs to refer your child to us. Dentists across Northern Ireland can refer using our referral form.
At the first visit, an orthodontic nurse takes a 3D digital scan and photographs, then we contact you within 12 weeks with your options. See your first visit.
How long is the wait?
| Stage | Current wait (October 2026) |
|---|---|
| Health service assessment | 6 to 12 months |
| From assessment to starting treatment | 3 to 6 months |
| Private assessment and treatment | No waiting list |
Waiting times change. Call us on 028 9045 1303 for the latest position.
How long does treatment take?
Health service (NHS) treatment with braces usually takes 18–24 months. Private treatment usually takes 2–24 months, depending on complexity. Mild cases can often be quite straightforward to fix.
Can adults have health service braces?
We normally only treat patients younger than 18 for health service treatment. Adults can have private treatment – there is no upper age limit, as long as your teeth and gums are healthy. See braces for adults.
What if my child does not qualify?
For under-18s, private braces or Smartee clear aligners cost £2,900 with our under-18s offer (usually £3,900) while the patient is under 18. You can pay a £900 deposit, then the rest in 12 monthly payments. A £150 plan fee is added to the balance and spread across your monthly payments. See private braces for under-18s and how much braces cost. If you paid the £155 private assessment, it comes off the deposit, so you pay a £745 deposit and the same monthly payments. This does not apply to cross-border (HSE) patients.
Not sure which route suits you? Read health service or private, or book a rapid teen assessment (£155).
Frequently asked questions
Are braces free for children in Northern Ireland?
Health service (NHS) braces are free for patients under 18 whose teeth meet the clinical criteria – an IOTN score of 3.6 or above.
How long is the waiting list for health service braces?
As of October 2026, the wait for a health service assessment at our practice is 6 to 12 months, and treatment then usually starts within 3 to 6 months. There is no waiting list for private treatment.
Do I need a referral from my dentist?
Yes, for health service treatment. For private treatment you can refer yourself.
Are clear aligners available on the health service?
No. Clear aligners are a private treatment at our practice. Health service treatment, for those who qualify, is usually with braces.
How long does health service treatment take?
Health service (NHS) treatment with braces usually takes 18–24 months.
Have a question? Ask your clinician during your appointment, or call us on 028 9045 1303.