North America Orthodontics Market Outlook to 2030

North America Orthodontics Market Overview

• The North America Orthodontics market is valued at USD 7.15 billion, based on a five-year historical analysis. The market has experienced consistent growth, driven primarily by the increasing prevalence of malocclusion, growing demand for aesthetic treatments such as invisible aligners, and advancements in orthodontic technology, including digital workflows and 3D printing. Additionally, the rise in disposable income, coupled with the expansion of orthodontic services through digital platforms, has contributed significantly to market growth.
• The dominant countries in the North American orthodontics market include the United States and Canada. The United States leads the market due to its advanced healthcare infrastructure, high disposable income, and strong consumer demand for aesthetic dental treatments. Major urban centers such as New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago have a high concentration of orthodontic practices, driven by both population density and the availability of premium services. Canadas orthodontics market, while smaller, benefits from growing awareness of orthodontic treatments and increasing adoption of advanced technologies.
• Government is recently making efforts to expand healthcare access and coverage for orthodontic treatments under Medicaid and other federal health programs. These initiatives aim to reduce the out-of-pocket expenses for orthodontic care, especially for children and low-income families, increasing affordability and accessibility to essential dental and orthodontic treatments. This policy shift is expected to drive greater demand for orthodontic supplies and services in the region.

North America Orthodontics Market Segmentation

By Product Type: The North America Orthodontics market is segmented by product type into fixed braces, removable braces, and auxiliary devices. Removable braces, including clear aligners, dominate the market share. This is primarily due to the rising demand for aesthetic, non-invasive orthodontic solutions. Clear aligners like Invisalign have gained popularity among adult consumers, offering a discreet alternative to traditional braces. The adoption of these products is further supported by advancements in digital treatment planning, which improves precision and outcomes.

By Age Group: The orthodontics market in North America is segmented by age group into children, teenagers, and adults. The adult segment holds a significant market share due to the growing awareness of orthodontic treatments for cosmetic purposes and the availability of advanced, less invasive options such as clear aligners. This segment has seen an increase in treatment demand, particularly among working professionals who seek aesthetic dental care but prefer treatments that do not interfere with their appearance or lifestyle.

North America Orthodontics Market Competitive Landscape

The North America Orthodontics market is highly competitive, with key players adopting various strategies such as mergers, acquisitions, product innovation, and expansion to maintain their market position. The market is dominated by both local and global players, with some companies focusing on cutting-edge technologies, including AI-driven treatment planning and 3D-printed orthodontic devices. For example, Align Technology, the maker of Invisalign, has a stronghold in the clear aligner segment, while traditional players like 3M and Henry Schein continue to lead in fixed orthodontic solutions.

North America Orthodontics Market Analysis

Growth Drivers

• Increasing Prevalence of Malocclusion: Malocclusion affects a large segment of the North American population. The American Dental Association reports that 7 out of 10 individuals have some form of malocclusion, with over 65 million people in the U.S. requiring orthodontic treatment. This widespread issue increases the need for braces and aligners, driving the orthodontics market. Untreated malocclusion leads to speech issues and dental decay, further fueling the demand for corrective procedures.
• Technological Advancements (Digital Orthodontics, 3D Printing): Innovations such as intraoral scanners and 3D printers have transformed orthodontic treatment in North America. More than $2 billion has been invested in healthcare-related 3D printing technologies, improving the precision of aligners and reducing treatment times. AI-powered digital impressions and treatment planning have made orthodontic procedures more efficient and accurate, enhancing patient outcomes and attracting more people to seek treatment.
• Growing Aesthetic Awareness (Aligners, Cosmetic Orthodontics): Increasing awareness around aesthetics has fueled demand for cosmetic orthodontics, particularly clear aligners. Around 45 million adults in the U.S. are interested in improving their smile, with aligners being a popular choice due to their discreet appearance. Social media has also contributed to the demand for cosmetic treatments as people prioritize personal appearance. In Canada, demand for aesthetic orthodontics has grown by 20% in the last year.

Market Challenges

• High Treatment Costs (Traditional Braces, Clear Aligners): The high cost of orthodontic treatment remains a significant barrier, with traditional braces priced between $5,000 and $8,000, and clear aligners costing $3,500 to $6,000. These high prices are driven by complex procedures and specialized materials, making orthodontic care inaccessible for many families, particularly those without insurance.
• Limited Insurance Coverage for Orthodontics: Many insurance plans in North America do not fully cover orthodontic treatments, which are often considered cosmetic rather than essential. Less than 50% of private dental insurance plans cover orthodontic care comprehensively, leaving patients with substantial out-of-pocket expenses. This limited coverage restricts access to treatment, especially for low-income families.

North America Orthodontics Market Future Outlook

Over the next five years, the North American orthodontics market is expected to show robust growth, driven by the rising demand for aesthetic dental treatments, technological advancements, and the expansion of digital orthodontics. Continuous product innovation, such as the development of AI-powered aligners and tele-orthodontics, will further accelerate market growth. The increasing adoption of clear aligners among adults and the integration of digital workflows in orthodontic treatment planning are key factors expected to shape the future of the market.

Market Opportunities

• Growing Demand for Invisible Aligners: Invisible aligners have gained popularity due to their convenience and aesthetic appeal. In 2023, 1.4 million people in the U.S. opted for clear aligners. The demand for these aligners is expected to grow as more individuals become aware of the advantages they offer, such as being discreet, removable, and more comfortable than traditional braces.
• Expansion of Tele-Orthodontics: Tele-orthodontics is gaining traction, particularly in rural areas where access to in-person care is limited. With 30% of rural households in the U.S. gaining access to high-speed internet in 2023, tele-orthodontics has become a feasible solution. Patients can now use at-home impression kits and receive virtual consultations, expanding the orthodontics market in underserved regions.