More UK adults seeking orthodontic treatment, survey shows

A new report has indicated a recent increase in the number of adults seeking orthodontic treatment in the UK.

Figures released by the British Orthodontic Society have shown that 75 percent of the organisation's members have recorded an increase in adult treatment, with one-quarter of those polled starting more than 50 new adult cases each year.

It was shown that 66 percent of these patients are 26 to 40 years old, while 22 percent are aged between 41 and 55 and more than ten percent are between 18 and 25.

Key drivers of this trend include greater awareness of adult orthodontics, as well as general improvements in patient expectations of how treatment can positively impact their appearance and wellbeing.

As such, more than 80 percent of respondents now have practices with 50 percent or more private adult patients. Of that number, the majority are female, but many men are also opting for treatment.

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."