Children & teens
During and after the mixed dentition phase up to age 18, if clinical criteria are met.
Orthodontics Vienna
Publicly funded braces
Publicly funded braces – metal brackets. Since July 2015, Austria has had updated rules for subsidised orthodontic treatment for children and teens. As a specialist orthodontist and contracted ÖGK partner, we offer treatment under this scheme. Patients can receive 100% of the statutory tariff back from the health insurance fund.
Requirements and your entitlement to reimbursement
Children and teenagers during and after the mixed dentition phase, up to age 18, may be eligible if the clinical criteria are met.
Key points
Treatment must be medically necessary (IOTN 4 or 5). You must apply to your insurer before starting. If approved, 100% of the statutory tariff for fixed metal braces may be reimbursed. Treatment under the scheme uses metal brackets only; add-ons such as ceramic brackets are not covered.
Fixed or removable publicly funded braces – requirements
- ✓A severe dental and/or jaw misalignment (IOTN 4 or 5) must be present. Severity is assessed at the initial consultation.
- ✓Submit an application to your insurer before treatment begins. If approved, 100% of the tariff for fixed braces may be reimbursed. Check with your insurer early.
- ✓Treatment under the scheme uses metal brackets only; ceramic surcharges are not reimbursed.
Note
If IOTN 4 or 5 is present but parents prefer an alternative without insurer funding, we offer:
- Tooth-coloured braces
- Ceramic brackets
- Clear aligners (e.g. Invisalign) — Invisible braces / aligners
Who is eligible?
Severe malocclusion (IOTN 4 or 5)
Medical necessity is established in diagnostics; lower severity classes are not covered.
Timing
Treatment may start in the mixed or permanent dentition depending on findings – we plan individually.
Private alternatives
If you choose a non-funded option (e.g. ceramic or aligners), we explain costs and process clearly.
Treatment options
The subsidised scheme is tied to metal brackets. Other preferences can be addressed as private treatment.
Metal brackets (subsidised)
The statutory benefit for publicly funded braces is based on fixed metal appliances.
Ceramic brackets
More discreet; not eligible for surcharge coverage under the public scheme – available as private care.
Clear aligners
Transparent aligners for selected cases – outside the public tariff, planned individually.
Further orthodontics
We combine methods that fit your diagnosis – from fixed appliances to specific devices.
Interceptive treatment in the mixed dentition
In the mixed dentition, early-phase treatment for children around 6–10: limited therapy in primary/mixed dentition, max. about 1 year, then a break, then checks every 4–6 months. Around ages 12–13 we review whether further treatment is needed, including fixed braces if appropriate.
Removable appliance under the scheme
The removable option only works if worn at least about 12–14 hours per day. Typical duration: about 1 year.
Malocclusions that require treatment
Including harmful habits (tongue thrust, incorrect swallowing, thumb sucking, etc.).
Open bite
An anterior open bite can affect chewing and speech.
Crowding
Crowding due to various causes or early loss of primary teeth.
Malocclusions
Deep bite, overbite and crossbite can cause long-term problems.
Jaw discrepancy
Pronounced incisor step, maxillary retrusion or Class III maxilla.
Crossbite (posterior)
A posterior crossbite (on one or both sides) can cause uneven loading, chewing problems, and over time TMJ issues; it usually needs orthodontic correction.
Crossbite (anterior / edge-to-edge)
Anterior crossbite or a forced anterior bite: front teeth do not meet correctly. Early assessment and treatment can support jaw function and growth.
More on related topics: crossbite (DE) · clear aligners
Main treatment with fixed braces in the permanent dentition
If IOTN 4 or 5 applies, reimbursement may be available. Publicly funded treatment for children uses fixed metal appliances only.
Tip: confirm details with your insurer even if the IOTN severity is already known.
Duration depends on severity; fixed treatment often lasts about 18–24 months.
Costs and reimbursement
Overview for ages 6–18 with IOTN 4/5 only
Main treatment up to age 18Public tariff (subsidised braces)
Interceptive up to age 10According to insurer rules
Discontinuation feeReference site: €350 – confirm with insurer/practice
Benefits may vary by tariff. Please obtain binding information from your insurer and discuss your plan with us.
Process: consultation to retention
From application and diagnostics to follow-ups – see our detailed treatment process page.
- 1Free initial consultation (by appointment).
- 2Records: X-rays, photos, digital scans – without impressions.
- 3Planning visit: findings and discussion of appliance type.
- 4Start: fitting and instructions for hygiene and wear.
- 5Regular control visits every 6–8 weeks.
- 6Finishing: debonding and review of results.
- 7Retention – stabilising the treatment outcome.
If reimbursement is not possible
For example IOTN 2 or 3 instead of 4 or 5:
Alternatives
FAQ
What are IOTN 4 and 5?▾
They describe how severe a malocclusion is. Grades 4–5 are typically relevant for public funding; we classify this in diagnostics.
Why metal brackets for the subsidised scheme?▾
Austrian public coverage for this programme is tied to fixed metal appliances; aesthetic surcharges are not funded.
How long does treatment take?▾
It depends on severity; main treatment in the permanent dentition is often about 18–24 months. Interceptive phases are shorter.
What is interceptive treatment?▾
Limited early treatment in the mixed dentition, often with a pause and later review for further care.
Dr Manish Sablania M.Sc. Orthodontics
Specialist orthodontist Vienna 1200
- ●Qualified partner for publicly funded braces.
- ●28+ years of experience and 7800+ orthodontic treatments, patient-centred care.
Book your free consultation
We will explain suitable treatment and your options under the public braces scheme.