Research reveals a growing preference among UK parents for private orthodontic treatments for their children, driven by prolonged NHS waiting times. Analysis shows varying costs across regions, with the South East topping the list at £4,285 for fixed metal braces. The shift towards private dentistry is attributed to the challenges faced by NHS orthodontic services, prompting families to explore alternative financing options and make sacrifices to prioritise their children’s dental health.
Research shows an increasing number of parents in the UK are opting for private orthodontic treatment for their children due to extensive NHS waiting lists. The South East of England is the priciest region, with fixed metal braces costing £4,285 on average. The South West follows at £3,757, Scotland at £3,726, the East of England at £3,415, and Wales at £3,246. In London, costs vary significantly, with some areas offering treatment for about £2,368, though fees in Central London can reach around £5,500.
NHS orthodontic waiting times, exacerbated by COVID-19, push parents to seek private options. Private treatments range between £2,000 and £6,000, depending on the location and services. Around 29% of parents finance these costs through credit, while 13% use their savings. Additionally, many families are delaying other expenditures like holidays to afford this treatment.
Orthodontic specialist Emma Laing explains that NHS treatments require lower fees and higher patient volumes, which many dentists find unsustainable. The trend toward private dentistry reflects a broader shift in how dental care is accessed and funded in the UK.
Patients aged under 18 may receive free NHS braces if deemed necessary by a dentist, typically for severe dental issues. However, less severe cases often do not qualify for NHS funding, leading parents to seek private alternatives that offer comprehensive care but at higher costs.
