Private Braces for Kids & Teens in Harold Wood, Romford
If your child has been told they don't qualify for NHS braces, or has been placed on a waiting list stretching into years, you don't have to wait. At Fourways Dental in Harold Wood we offer private orthodontic treatment for teenagers from £2,295 — usually starting within weeks of your consultation.
Why so many children don't qualify for NHS braces
NHS orthodontic treatment is funded only for under-18s with a clear clinical need, measured on a scale called the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN). Funding normally applies to grade 4 and 5 cases, and to grade 3 only where the appearance score is high enough. Treatment for milder crowding, small gaps or appearance alone usually isn't covered — which is why roughly a third of children assessed qualify.
Even when a child does qualify, demand is high. Waiting lists frequently run many months, and in some areas up to around two years. For a teenager approaching 18, that wait can mean losing eligibility altogether.
What we offer instead
No referral, no waiting list — book a consultation directly and, once you're happy with the plan, treatment usually starts within weeks.
Every case considered — including mild crowding, gaps and appearance concerns that fall outside NHS criteria.
A real choice of brace — traditional metal, discreet white ceramic, or Invisalign clear aligners for suitable cases. Your child isn't limited to one option.
Colours they'll actually look forward to — with metal braces, your child picks from a wide range of coloured elastics and can change them at every adjustment visit.
Retainers included — every fixed brace option includes fixed and removable retainers worth up to £770, so the result is protected.
Treatment close to home — appointments in Harold Wood that fit around school, with parking outside & Saturday morning appointments available, plus before & after school.
How much do private braces for teens cost?
Metal braces start from £2,295 for a single arch and £2,995 for both. White ceramic braces, which are far less noticeable, start from £2,495 single arch and £3,495 for both. Every option includes retainers worth up to £770.
Your consultation is £110 — including examination, photos and a large X-ray — and is fully deducted from the treatment cost if you go ahead within three months. Treatment over £750 can be spread over 12 months to 5 years with Chrysalis Finance (14.9% APR representative, no deposit).
When is the right time?
Most children start orthodontic treatment around age 12, once the majority of adult teeth have come through — though it varies. If you're unsure, an early assessment tells you exactly where your child stands.
Why parents choose Fourways Dental Clinic
We've cared for families in Harold Wood since 1946 and hold a 4.9 rating from over 300 reviews. Parents tell us they value the unhurried explanations, the clear fixed quotes, and a team that's patient with nervous teenagers.
FAQs
My child was refused NHS braces. Can you still treat them?
Yes. Private treatment isn't restricted by IOTN criteria, so we can treat cases the NHS won't fund, including milder crowding, gaps and appearance concerns.
How long will we wait to start?
There's no waiting list. Most patients start treatment within a few weeks of their consultation, once the plan is agreed.
Can my child choose the colour of their braces?
Yes — with metal braces they choose from a wide range of coloured elastics, and can pick new colours at each adjustment appointment.
How long does treatment take?
Most teenage cases take around 12–24 months depending on complexity. You'll get a personalised estimate at the consultation.
Do we need a referral from our dentist?
No. You can book a consultation with us directly.
Is my child too old at 17?
Not at all — private treatment has no age limit, so there's no risk of ageing out.
Will my child need tooth extractions?
Not always. Many orthodontist insist on taking teeth out prior to treatment — we prefer to keep as many teeth as we can for as long as we can & only extract if we have to for space or to improve the bite.