Orthodontics is a specialty of dentistry that deals with the diagnosis, prevention and correction of malpositioned teeth and jaws. It can also focus on modifying facial growth, known as dentofacial orthopedics.
It involves the use of dental braces and other appliances to slowly move the teeth and jaws around. If the malocclusion is very severe, jaw surgery may be used. Treatment is usually started before a person reaches adulthood since bones can more easily be moved around in children.
Treatment can take several months to a few years
Orthodontic therapy can include the use of fixed or removable appliances. The majority of orthodontic therapy is delivered using appliances that are fixed in place,for example with braces that are bonded to the teeth with adhesives. Fixed appliances can have greater mechanical control of the teeth and the treatment outcome is greater with the use of fixed appliances.
Clear aligners are an alternative to braces
Clear aligners, also known as a clear-aligner treatment, are orthodontic devices that are a transparent, plastic form of dental braces used to adjust teeth.
