NHS or Private

Initial examination and assessment is available on the NHS for all child patients.
There is a waiting list (anything up to 24 months) for NHS consultations and treatment is provided to secure "dental health" - full cosmetic excellence may not be achieved.
Orthodontic treatment for patients over 18 years of age is only provided under private contract.

Limits on NHS orthodontic treatment

The new dental contract came into force on the 1st of April 2006.
All dentist and orthodontic specialists must now have a contract with their local Health Board in order to be able to provide an NHS service to their patients.
The Local Health Board is responsible for deciding what NHS treatment should be available in their area and for funding. However every patient has the right to an orthodontic assessment by a specialist.
In the past, orthodontists were able to see as many patients as they wanted. What the government is attempting to do is target limited NHS resources to those children  with the greatest oral health need rather than cosmetic need.
Unfortunately it appears that the government has failed to provide enough funds for orthodontic treatment. The introduction of the new contract means that only a fixed number of treatments  can be carried out which means that waiting lists to see an orthodontist on the NHS will lengthen. It is of concern to the British Orthodontic Society as it is normally best for patients to receive treatment when they are teenagers. The British Orthodontic Society is putting pressure on the government to ensure that children that are eligible for treatment do not have a long wait but in the end it is a political decision.
An additional restriction has also been placed on orthodontic services by the new dental contract. Orthodontists are required to assess a patients need for treatment before accepting them as an NHS patient. The system which has been introduced, the index of treatment need (IOTN) measures the patient's dental health need on a scale of 1 to 5. Only patients who score above 3.6 on this scale would be eligible for NHS funding

Private Treatments

We also offer private consultations and treatment. The principle advantages are:

• Additional clinical time set aside for each patient
• Unrestricted use of sophisticated appliances
• Treatment results are “Quality led” and not “Budget led”
• Immediate treatment thereby bypassing NHS waiting lists
• Shorter treatment times and fewer visits with latest techniques and materials
• Flexible interest free payment options

All private patients are sent a full written report with payment options before any treatment starts.

Fees for Private Treatment

Financial considerations should not be an obstacle to a beautiful smile. Therefore, our practice offers a wide range of payment options. Financing with no initial payment can often be arranged.
In addition, we can arrange a monthly installment plan. Many orthodontic problems require only limited treatment. The cost of treatment will vary, depending on the severity of the problem.
For your convenience, we accept all major credit cards. We aim to deliver the finest care at the most reasonable cost to our patients.