The Dutch healthcare authority NZa is to investigate a rise in the number of people opting for expensive braces for their own or children’s teeth.

The investigation comes two years after the government forced down orthodontists’ fees by 16%, the second compulsory cut in four years.

However, despite the cut, orthodontists have managed to keep their turnover stable, the NZa says. They argue they are treating more patients and that patients are opting for pricey braces.

The NZa and consumers’ association Consumentenbond want to know if this really is the case. They have set up a website where patients can report their experiences.