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Can I Get Invisalign on the NHS?
No, Invisalign is not available on the NHS. It is a private orthodontic treatment that is not covered by the NHS, which only provides limited orthodontic services primarily aimed at medical or severe dental issues.
What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a modern orthodontic treatment that uses clear, removable aligners to gradually straighten teeth. It has gained popularity due to its discreet appearance and convenience compared to traditional metal braces.
The aligners are customised to fit each patient’s teeth and are changed every few weeks as the teeth slowly move into their desired positions. The treatment is particularly appealing to adults and teenagers who want to straighten their smile with a less noticeable teeth straightening option.
Why Is Invisalign Not Covered On The NHS?
The NHS provides orthodontic treatment for free to patients under 18 who have a clear clinical need for it. However, the options available are generally limited to traditional metal braces. This is because the NHS focuses on providing essential medical care rather than cosmetic or aesthetic procedures.
Invisalign, being a largely cosmetic treatment, does not meet the criteria for NHS funding. The priority of NHS orthodontic services is to treat conditions that could cause significant health problems if left untreated, such as severe crowding, misaligned bites or issues that affect eating and speech.
Who Is Eligible For Orthodontic Treatment On The NHS?
Orthodontic treatment on the NHS is primarily available for children and teenagers under the age of 18 with significant dental issues. The British Orthodontic Society reported that approximately 35% of children aged 12 years old in the UK are assessed for orthodontic treatment needs each year.
Patients are evaluated using the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN), a grading system that assesses the severity of dental problems. Those who score high on the IOTN scale, indicating a serious medical need, may qualify for free treatment.
The NHS only covers orthodontic treatment in rare cases for adults, such as severe misalignment that affects daily functions like chewing or speaking.
What Are the Alternatives To Invisalign On The NHS?
If you are looking for a teeth-straightening solution through the NHS, traditional metal braces are the most common option provided. These braces are effective at correcting a wide range of dental issues, from simple alignment problems to complex bite issues. While they are not as discreet as Invisalign, they are fully funded by the NHS for eligible patients under 18 who meet the necessary criteria.
For adults, the NHS offers very limited orthodontic treatments. In most cases, adults seeking treatment will need to opt for private orthodontic care.
Alternatives to Invisalign in the private sector include clear ceramic braces and lingual braces, which are less visible than traditional metal braces but still not as discreet as Invisalign. However, these options are also not covered by the NHS and would need to be funded privately.
How Much Does Invisalign Cost?
Invisalign treatment in the UK typically ranges from over £2000 to more than £5000, depending on the complexity of the case and the length of the treatment. At Elegance Dental, we pride ourselves in offering affordable Invisalign treatment with fees starting from £2160.
The price of Invisalign reflects its advanced technology, customisation and the convenience of removable aligners. It is considered a premium orthodontic treatment due to the precise nature of the aligners and the digital scanning technology used to create them.
Is Invisalign Worth the Investment?
For many people, the decision to invest in Invisalign comes down to personal preference and the desire for a discreet orthodontic treatment. The clear aligners are virtually invisible, making them an attractive option for adults and teenagers who are concerned about the appearance of traditional braces.
Invisalign also offers the convenience of being removable, allowing patients to eat and brush their teeth without restrictions. A study by the American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics found that 96% of patients who completed Invisalign treatment were satisfied with the results, indicating a high level of patient satisfaction.
While the cost is higher than traditional braces, the benefits of improved comfort, aesthetics and flexibility make it a popular choice among those wanting straighter teeth.
Commence Your Journey To Straighter Teeth With Elegance Dental
Choosing Invisalign is a personal decision based on your orthodontic needs, budget and preference for a less visible treatment method. If you are looking to achieve a straighter smile, get in touch today to discuss your options and determine the best course of action for your dental health.