4 million. Number of patients under age 18 undergoing orthodontic treatment in North America in 2006. “The latest figures from the American Association of Orthodontists, compiled before the recession began, counted about 4 million patients younger than 18 in North America in treatment in 2006, up from 2.6 million in 1989.” (Catherine Saint Louis, “Skin Deep - Many Cutbacks but Not for Straight Teeth,” The New York Times, New York City, New York, April 16, 2009)
3.5 million. Number of orthodontic patients in 1989. “[Pam Paladin, a spokesperson for the St. Louis-based American Association of Orthodontists] said… …in 1989 there were 3.5 million orthodontic patients, 75 percent of whom were children under the age of 17.” (Paige Bowers, Contributing Writer, “Orthodontists aim to make visits fun for kids,” Atlanta Business Chronicle, Atlanta, Georgia, Friday, October 29, 1999)
2.6 million. Number of under age 18 patients undergoing orthodontic treatment in 1989. “The latest figures from the American Association of Orthodontists, compiled before the recession began, counted about 4 million patients younger than 18 in North America in treatment in 2006, up from 2.6 million in 1989.” (Catherine Saint Louis, “Skin Deep - Many Cutbacks but Not for Straight Teeth,” The New York Times, New York City, New York, April 16, 2009)
