Dentists variation in the determination of orthodontic treatment need.

The criteria that dentists use to judge the need for orthodontic treatment are not clear. This study investigates variation in dentists' perception of orthodontic treatment need. Seventy-four dentists were asked to assess 320 dental casts in relation to aesthetic and dental health need. The results of this investigation revealed that the panel was divided as what constituted a need for orthodontic treatment on dental health grounds. It is suggested that one method of achieving a more uniform evaluation of orthodontic treatment need is the use of an occlusal index. Until an occlusal index is accepted and used by the profession, the distortion of need and demand for orthodontic treatment by dentists' unequal perceptions will continue.