Orthodontic assessments

There are strict criteria for patients who can receive their treatment on the NHS.

Generally orthodontics is not available to adults, people who have had orthodontics before or those whose treatment need is considered low.

Patients should have excellent oral hygiene and be committed to what can be a very long term treatment – sometimes up to two years. You can read all about the criteria for NHS orthodontics and more about orthodontics and service provision at the British Orthodontic Society website.

We also have a training course in our learning zone where you can find out more information on the

Wait lists

When you track your referral you may see that you have been allocated to a waiting list. There are often long waits for orthodontic treatment on the NHS. At present there is not an appeals process but there is second assessment request policy. You can access the policy and procedures for this here. Waiting lists for orthodontic treatment across Greater Manchester vary dependent upon demand and capacity in different areas. In some places currently these waiting times may be between 12 months and 2 years. Patients are triaged to ensure that acceptance criteria is met and the decision to proceed with treatment is based upon clinical need only.

The provider will contact the patient directly to arrange an appointment – not the Dental Referral Management Centre. If you have any further queries then these should be referred to the NHS in Wales team at england.gmdental@wales.nhs.uk