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Are Braces Free in Ireland? HSE Orthodontics vs. Private Care

As a parent, you may be wondering if the HSE will cover the costs of necessary orthodontic treatments, so here is our helpful guide.

HSE treatment is available based on severity of treatment needed

Essentially, only the very worst cases are paid for by the HSE. Sometimes this will be done in the HSE, and sometimes they will refer you to a private clinic for treatment at their expense.

They use specific orthodontic guidelines to determine who gets treated. Children under 16 with severe orthodontic issues, based on the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN):

• Grade 4 or 5 Issues – Severe problems like front teeth that fail to erupt, multiple missing teeth, very prominent front teeth (overjet greater than 9mm), or significant bite/jaw development issues.
• Major Dental Anomalies – Conditions such as amelogenesis imperfecta or impeded tooth eruption due to crowding, displacement, or supernumerary teeth.

Approximately 80% of children do not qualify for free orthodontics in Ireland.

Waiting Lists

Unfortunately, waiting lists are a fact of life for care paid for by the HSE. Given the large number of people seeking care, it is inevitable that treatment is delayed, even with the best will in the world. Typical times of 2–4 or even more years are not uncommon.

How do I know if my child qualifies?

Screening is usually carried out in primary schools in 6th Class or by referral to the HSE. The HSE dentist will check based entirely on treatment needs.

What if my child does not qualify?

You could consider orthodontics privately. Tax relief is available at 20% in Ireland, and payment plans are often available.

Check out the Health Service Executive website for more information - www.hse.ie

Book a consultation with our orthodontic team at Seapoint Clinic: https://www.seapointclinic.ie