STATISTICS

According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, about half of all seniors 65 and older have been to the dentist within the past year. 23% of seniors 65 and older have not been to the dentist in the last 5 years. -- February 2009.

Overall, 44% of adults 18 years of age and over last contacted a dentist or other dental health professional within the previous 6 months; 18% more than 6 months ago, but not more than 1 year ago; 13% more than 1 year ago, but not more than 2 years ago; 12% more than 2 years ago, but not more than 5 years ago; and 12% last contacted a dentist or other dental health professional more than 5 years ago. One percent of adults had never contacted a dentist or other dental health professional. – CDC Summary of Health Statistics 2007

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children get a check-up with an orthodontic specialist no later than age 7. -- American Association of Orthodontists, 2008

One in 5 orthodontic patients is an adult, age 18 or older. 63% of adult orthodontic patients are female. -- American Association of Orthodontists, 2008

The majority of orthodontic patients begin treatment between ages 9 and 14. -- American Association of Orthodontists, 2008

63% of adult patients are female. 59% of patients through age 17 are female. This reflects a change from surveys from 1989 forward, which consistently found that 70% of adult patients were female and 60% of patients through age 17 were female. Observation: more males are seeking orthodontic treatment. -- American Association of Orthodontists, 2008

Only 59% of all new patients have dental insurance that includes orthodontic benefits. -- American Association of Orthodontists, 2008

It is estimated that between 50 and 75% of the population could benefit from orthodontic treatment. -- American Association of Orthodontists, 2008

Most orthodontic treatment lasts from 12 to 36 months, with 24 months being average. -- American Association of Orthodontists, 2008