Malocclusion and orthodontic treatment need of 15-74-year-old Dutch adults

Abstract

In 1986 a nationwide dental survey was performed in the Netherlands. This article describes the prevalence of dentofacial anomalies in the age group 15-74 yr, as well as the subjective and objective need for orthodontic treatment. The main findings were: severe crowding in the mandible was found in approximately 15%; an Angle Class II situation was seen in 28%; a maxillary overjet of greater than 5 mm was found in 23%; orthodontic treatment had or was being performed in approximately 25%; 45% of orthodontic treatment was carried out by a general practitioner; using professionally defined need, 39% of the population required treatment whereas only 14% of the people felt that this treatment was necessary.