Need and demand for orthodontic treatment in a group of women in Sweden

272 women living in the city of Gothenburg were subjected to a clinical examination, recordings on dental casts and interview by questionnaire. The prevalence of malocclusion and the need for orthodontic treatment were at the same level as previously found in children and adult men. 9%of the sample desired orthodontic treatment and expectation of an aesthetic improvement seemed to be the main reason for this. 25% of the women had orthodontic treatment, most often with removable appliances. The sample had very regular dental treatment habits but, despite this, fairly poor periodontal conditions, which seemed to be the main obstacle to orthodontic treatment in these women.