Understanding NHS Orthodontic Care
NHS orthodontic treatment focuses on improving dental health and function, not purely cosmetic appearance.
Patients are assessed using a national guideline known as the IOTN — the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need.
The IOTN (Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need)
The IOTN (Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need) helps determine whether a child qualifies for NHS-funded orthodontic treatment.
It has two parts:
Dental Health Component (DHC):
Evaluates the severity of the bite, tooth position, and overall function.
Graded from 1 to 5.
NHS treatment is generally available for patients scoring Grade 4 or 5, and occasionally for Grade 3 if there are significant aesthetic concerns.
Aesthetic Component (AC):
Uses a series of photographs (scored 1–10) to assess the appearance of the teeth.
A higher score indicates a greater need for aesthetic improvement.
If your child meets the NHS criteria, they will be eligible for comprehensive orthodontic care provided by our experienced team.
Types of Braces Provided
We offer a full range of NHS orthodontic appliances, carefully tailored to each patient’s age, dental development, and clinical needs:
Fixed Braces
Traditional metal braces remain one of the most effective ways to achieve precise, stable tooth movement. They consist of metal brackets and wires that are regularly adjusted to gently guide teeth into their ideal positions.
Removable Braces
Removable braces are typically used for early treatment or simpler corrections. They can help:
Guide developing teeth into better alignment
Correct crossbites
Reduce minor crowding
Improve deep bites (for example, using an anterior bite plane)
These appliances often serve as a useful first step before comprehensive fixed braces.
Functional Appliances
Functional braces, such as twin block or mandibular advancement devices, help guide jaw growth in younger patients with bite discrepancies (for example, when the upper teeth are significantly ahead of the lower teeth). They work best while a child is still growing and can significantly improve facial balance and long-term bite function.
Your NHS Journey at Royston Dental Care
1. Referral
Your child’s general dentist can refer them to us for an NHS orthodontic assessment.
2. Assessment Appointment
We’ll carry out a detailed examination, discuss our findings with you, and determine your child’s eligibility under the IOTN criteria.
3. Treatment Plan
If your child qualifies for NHS care, we’ll create a personalised treatment plan using the braces best suited to their needs.
4. Regular Reviews
Our orthodontic team will see your child every 6–8 weeks to monitor progress and ensure the best possible results.
Why Choose Royston Dental Care?
⭐ Specialist-led orthodontic care
⭐ Modern, comfortable environment
⭐ Focus on both function and aesthetics
⭐ Friendly, supportive team for younger patients
⭐ Comprehensive follow-up and retention advice
We believe every child deserves a confident, healthy smile — and we’re proud to help create them through high-quality NHS orthodontic care in the heart of Royston.
Ready to Get Started?
If you think your child may benefit from orthodontic treatment, please speak to your dentist about an NHS referral to Royston Dental Care. Our team looks forward to welcoming you.
Other Treatments
Bespoke Orthodontics
Customised solutions designed for you
We take a custom approach to every treatment plan, offering only the best orthodontic treatments to help you get a straighter smile.
Cosmetic Dentistry
Aesthetic enhancements for your best smile
Our cosmetic dental solutions help our patients achieve their desired aesthetics via cutting-edge solutions.
