Anjli Patel, Director of External Relations for the British Orthodontic Society, gives a quick take on the impact increased waiting lists, aligned with changes in patient attitude, have had on the provision of orthodontic treatment
There was a somewhat unexpected rise for orthodontic treatment in 2021 and 2022 following the pandemic and whilst anecdotal evidence suggests the growth is not carrying on along the same trajectory, it is by no means stopping. The BOS Member Survey results from 2021 and 2023 indicated an increase in the number of adults seeking orthodontic treatment with 76% of respondents in 2023 reporting an increase in adults seeking treatment over the past three years.1 This has been attributed to a heightened awareness of adult orthodontics, rising patient expectations and social factors, that people have been inspired by a celebrity or blogger and also due to a move away from more invasive dentistry. In addition, since 2020, the growth has been linked to the rise of online working, socialising and video calls; the ‘Zoom Boom', if you will.1
This is a preview of subscription content, access via your institution
