Children's Orthodontic Referrals in Larkfield, Kent
Keeping a close eye on how your child's teeth and jaws develop is one of the most important things we do at regular check-ups. When the time is right, we'll refer your child to a trusted specialist orthodontist — making sure they're seen at exactly the right stage of development for the best possible outcome.
Understanding referrals
What is an orthodontic referral?
An orthodontic referral is when we arrange for your child to be assessed by a specialist orthodontist — a dentist who has completed additional postgraduate training in correcting the alignment of teeth and jaws.
As your child grows, we monitor their tooth development at every check-up: tracking how baby teeth are being lost, how adult teeth are coming through, and whether the upper and lower jaws are developing in a balanced, healthy way. If we spot something that may need orthodontic treatment — whether now or in the future — we'll discuss it with you and make a referral at the appropriate time.
An orthodontic assessment at the right age can make treatment simpler, shorter, and more effective. Acting too early (before the adult teeth are in) or too late (after the jaw has fully grown) can limit the options available.
When might your child be referred? →
Signs to watch for
When might your child be referred?
We may suggest an orthodontic referral if we notice:
A referral doesn't necessarily mean treatment will begin immediately. The specialist will assess your child and advise on the most appropriate time to start, if treatment is needed at all.
What happens next
What happens when we refer?
From our findings to coordinated specialist care.
We explain our findings
We'll talk you and your child through what we've noticed, and why a specialist assessment is recommended.
We write the referral
A detailed letter goes to an orthodontist we trust, including X-rays and relevant clinical notes.
Specialist assessment
The orthodontist assesses your child, discusses options, and explains treatment, timing, and costs if needed.
Care continues with us
Your child's general dental care continues with us as normal throughout any orthodontic treatment.
NHS orthodontic treatment may be available for children who meet the clinical criteria — the orthodontist will advise on eligibility.
Timing matters
What age do children typically get braces?
Most orthodontic treatment in children begins between the ages of eleven and fourteen, when most of the adult teeth have come through and the jaw is still growing — making tooth movement more efficient. However, there are some situations where earlier intervention is beneficial.
Early treatment (age seven to ten) may be recommended for specific issues such as a crossbite, severely prominent teeth, or jaw growth problems that are better addressed while the facial bones are still developing.
We'll keep a close eye on your child's development at every check-up and flag the right time to refer — you don't need to wait until your child is a teenager to ask us about it.
Fees & finance
Is there a cost for an orthodontic referral?
The referral itself is part of your child's ongoing dental care with us — there's no separate charge for us referring your child to a specialist. The orthodontic assessment and any subsequent treatment will be charged by the orthodontic practice.
NHS orthodontic treatment is available for children who meet the eligibility criteria; private treatment is also available for those who don't qualify or who prefer private care. The specialist will give you full cost information before any treatment begins.
Children's dentistry
Related treatments
Questions
Frequently asked
How do I know if my child needs braces? +
The best way to find out is to have your child seen regularly at their dental check-ups. We monitor tooth development as part of every appointment and will let you know if we see anything that may need orthodontic assessment. You're also welcome to bring up any concerns — if you've noticed crowding, gaps, or a bite that looks off, just ask us.
Is NHS orthodontic treatment available for children? +
Yes, NHS orthodontic treatment is available for children under 18 who meet the clinical eligibility criteria — assessed using an index that measures the dental health need for treatment. Not all children will qualify on the NHS, but those who do receive treatment at no cost to the family. Your child's orthodontist will advise on eligibility at their assessment.
What types of braces might my child be offered? +
This depends on the nature of the case and whether treatment is NHS or private. NHS treatment typically involves fixed metal braces. Private treatment opens up additional options including tooth-coloured fixed braces and clear aligners such as Invisalign Teen. The specialist will recommend the most appropriate option for your child's specific orthodontic needs.
Can my child have Invisalign instead of braces? +
Invisalign Teen is available as a private treatment option for eligible teenagers. Whether it's suitable depends on the type and complexity of the orthodontic issue. We offer Invisalign at Larkfield Dental Aesthetics for appropriate teenage cases. See our Invisalign page for more, or ask us at your child's next appointment.
Ready to book?
Let's find the right path
Call us on 01732 521123 or email hello@larkfielddentalcare.co.uk — we'd love to help.