Is orthodontic treatment available on the NHS?
Orthodontic treatment is only available free of charge on the NHS for young people under 18 years of age and who have a clear clinical need for treatment. A rating system, known as the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN), is used to assess the need and eligibility of individual cases. The IOTN is made up of five grades, which are listed below. • grade 1: almost perfect teeth • grade 2: minor irregularities with the teeth, such as slightly protruding upper front teeth • grade 3: greater irregularities with the teeth do not require treatment for health reasons, for example, upper front teeth that protrude 4mm (0.15 inches) or less • grade 4: a severe degree of irregularity with the teeth that requires treatment for health reasons, for example, upper front teeth that protrude more than 6mm (0.25 inches) • grade 5: severe dental health problems, for example, upper front teeth that protrude more than 9mm (0.35 inches) NHS treatment is available for grade 4 or 5 cases. Grade 3 cases a
