Orthodontics in Nepal

Background and objectives: Orthodontics in Nepal do not have a long history. The first specialised orthodontic service by a Nepalese orthodontist was started in1990. Gradually, the number of orthodontists has increased, and the range of services provided by them has also expanded. The aim of this study was to find out the state of orthodontics in Nepal. Materials and Methods: The prevalence of malocclusion was assessed from past studies. Information regarding Nepalese orthodontists was obtained from the Nepal Medical Council, the Orthodontic and Dentofacial Orthopedic Association of Nepal and through personal contacts. Information of Nepalese living standard was obtained from the World Bank report. Results: Malocclusion is one of the most common dental problems, with high prevalence ranging from 73% to 90.4% at various places in Nepal. More than 50% of those with malocclusion have an extreme or severe need of orthodontic treatment. With only a few orthodontists (74), mostly centered in the capital and major cities, even people with severe and extreme treatment needs are deprived of orthodontic treatment. The minimum cost for orthodontic treatment even in a government hospital is approximately one third of the per capita income of the Nepalese people ($220 minimum cost vs $698.30 per capita income a/c to the World Bank 2014) Conclusion: Although orthodontic services are urgently required, people are unable to afford them due to low socioeconomic status. Also, most of the orthodontists are concentrated in the major cities, with difficult access for people residing in rural areas. Palabras clave: Orthodontics, malocclusion, per capita income