An Analysis of Retrospective Data concerning the Provision of Orthodontic Treatment by the Community Dental Services

Abstract

The distribution of both community orthodontic and dental officer manpower has been reviewed, and both exhibit an unequal regional variation. The amount of orthodontic treatment provided was calculated, and expressed as a treatment rate and percentage of fixed: removable appliances filled. There was a marked regional variation in the form of appliance utilized, and there was a significant relationship between community orthodontic manpower and the relative use of fixed appliances. However, the treatment rate was not related to the manpower distribution. The data collected, by the Department of Health, on the provision of orthodontic treatment was found to have some limitations in its usefulness for epidemiological purposes.