After having discussions with a friend about specialisms, I came across some data. Last year, the BSPD wrote a paper showing the number of orthodontic specialists in January 2020 was 1361, and far outweighed any other speciality. This may make one question whether they are a product of patient demand or a move towards more financially beneficial careers.
200,000+ UK children have treatment under the NHS yearly, with a greater number seeking treatment privately. The NHS website itself says 'because of high demand, there can be a waiting list'. There are almost 6x as many orthodontic specialists than paediatric. It is somewhat perplexing to think that there is a waiting list for the high number of orthodontic specialists.
LaingBuisson, 2017 found 35.2% of practices described themselves as a 'specialist cosmetic practice' or a 'specialist practice'. This sector was valued at £3.6 billion+.
Interestingly, the paediatric speciality in 2020 had only 239 registrants. It might be a possibility that if there were more of these specialists, they may play a hand in preventing the problems that orthodontic colleagues may later rectify.
One must not forget that dentistry is both a service and a business. Dentists come into the profession wanting to earn as much as possible, as fast as possible, whilst balancing work-life commitments. People want to look good AND be healthy. I predict the data this year to show little comparative change, although there may be signs of stagnation due to the big C.
Refs:
LaingBuisson. Dentistry UK Market Report: Fifth Edition.
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