A new survey, conducted in June 2016, and designed to gather data about adult orthodontics in the UK, was sent to BOS members working in high street practices.
Survey findings reveal:
- 75 per cent of respondents are seeing an increase in adult treatment.
- Key drivers for treatment appear to be heightened awareness of adult orthodontics alongside rising expectations on how treatment can positively impact on both appearance and wellbeing.
- A quarter of respondents are starting more than 50 new adult cases each year.
- Of adult patients in mixed and private practices: 66 per cent of patients are 26 to 40 year olds and 22 per cent are 41 to 55. More than 10 per cent are 18 to 25.
- More than 80 per cent of respondents have practices with 50 per cent or more private adult patients. Of that number, the majority are female patients but many men are also opting for treatment.
Orthodontics isn’t simply about straight teeth but can make a difference to your appearance, your bite and your overall health. It’s a speciality that blends art and science.
To meet the rising demand for adult orthodontics BOS recently launched The BOS Guide: Orthodontics for Adults – designed for patients to read before they see a clinician. It covers all aspects of orthodontic decision making: why, how, where and who. Each section has key points or tips which guide the patient towards getting the information they need to make the right choice for them.
Alison Murray, president of the British Orthodontic Society, said:
“We welcome the growth of interest in orthodontic treatment. Many adults who have undergone orthodontic treatment report higher levels of self esteem and their quality of life is often significantly improved.”