#Japan #Tokyo #orthodontics #Oh my teeth #dental aligners

Introduction

In light of soaring prices, many consumers are facing tough choices regarding orthodontic treatments. A recent survey conducted by Oh my teeth Inc. revealed that one out of three individuals prefers to correct only their front teeth, marking a significant shift towards cost concerns in dental care. This article delves into the findings of the survey and discusses the implications for the dental industry, particularly regarding the need for transparent diagnostics and treatment options.

The Survey

Conducted on November 27, 2025, the survey aimed to understand initial treatment preferences among 457 individuals who had previously undergone orthodontic treatment. Results showed that rising living costs have shifted consumer priorities towards more budget-conscious orthodontic solutions. With comprehensive orthodontic treatment often exceeding 1 million yen, the prominence of partial treatment has gained traction.

Demand for Partial Correction

The survey detailed various preferences for orthodontic treatment among consumers:

• - Upper front teeth only: 15.5%
• - Lower front teeth only: 7.4%
• - Both upper and lower front teeth: 10.9%
• - Comprehensive alignment (including molars): 41.1%
• - No specific preference: 24.9%

Approximately 34% of participants showed a preference for correcting only their front teeth, a clear indicator of the growing demand for affordable, aesthetically-focused treatments.

Ambiguity in Treatment Scope

Interestingly, nearly 25% of the respondents admitted uncertainty regarding their treatment scope. They were unsure whether their dental conditions fit into partial correction criteria, leading many to proceed with treatment discussions without a defined treatment plan. This ambiguity could lead to mismatched expectations regarding costs and treatment outcomes, creating potential gaps between dental professionals' recommendations and patients’ financial realities.

Real Treatment Trends

When assessing actual treatment undergone, the findings indicated that about 44.9% of the participants chose partial corrections targeted at the front teeth. Specifically:

• - 1-2 teeth only: 12.25%
• - Upper front teeth only: 14.66%
• - Lower front teeth only: 5.03%
• - Both sets of upper and lower front teeth: 12.91%

Conversely, comprehensive treatments that included molars accounted for 55.14%, demonstrating a near-equal preference between partial and full orthodontic care despite the strong desire for front tooth treatment during initial evaluations.

Cost Considerations

The average costs associated with partial corrections range from 200,000 to 400,000 yen, while comprehensive treatments may exceed 1 million yen. This stark contrast reinforces the transitional mindset of consumers who are increasingly seeking cost-effective solutions. Mismatched expectations about treatment scope can lead to confusion, especially when dealing with the intricacies of dental care that might require varying approaches based on individual dental structures.

The Need for Transparency

Dr. Yoshihiro Honda, a leading orthodontist affiliated with Oh my teeth, emphasizes the importance of transparency in diagnostics and pricing structures within the dental industry. Many potential patients grapple with the complexities of what constitutes their best treatment option, especially when faced with conflicting pieces of information from social media or advertisements.

To elevate consumer trust, it’s crucial that dental professionals clearly communicate treatment paths and associated costs up front. Awareness of the broader implications of dental health, including functional and long-term considerations, should be prioritized alongside aesthetic improvements.

Oh my teeth’s Commitment to Clarity

Oh my teeth aims to foster a more transparent orthodontic experience by simplifying the discovery and understanding of both diagnosis and pricing for patients. Key initiatives include:

• - 3D scanning and X-rays to offer a visual picture of one’s oral status
• - Clear breakdowns of treatment options and costs through in-depth consultations
• - Free initial consultations in major cities across Japan, providing easier access to expert opinions

The outcome of these measures is designed to empower patients, allowing them to make informed decisions tailored to their personal needs.

Conclusion

As economic pressures mount, the orthodontic landscape is undoubtedly shifting. Faced with increased costs, more patients are reevaluating their treatment needs, showing a clear preference for targeted solutions like front tooth alignment. The call for enhanced transparency signals a pivotal moment for dental practices, urging them to communicate openly about the complexities and costs associated with various treatment options. With companies like Oh my teeth at the forefront of this movement, the future of orthodontic care may become more approachable and understandable for all consumers.