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. 

Crooked teeth and teeth that do not fit together correctly are harder to keep clean, are at risk of being lost early due to tooth decay and periodontal disease, and cause extra stress on the chewing muscles that can lead to headaches, TMJ syndrome and neck, shoulder and back pain. Teeth that are crooked or not in the right place can also detract from one's appearance.

Only an orthodontist can determine the best solution you can benefit from the most regarding orthodontic planning and treatment. Based on diagnostic tools that include a full medical and dental health history, a clinical exam, plaster models of your teeth, and special X-rays and photographs, throughout proper analysis, the orthodontist  can decide whether any intervention is recommended, and develop a treatment plan that's right for you. 

Orthodontic misalignments, called malocclusions, can indicate a number of different conditions. Inherited malocclusions include jaw growth problems, congenitally missing teeth, extra teeth, crowded or protruded teeth and spacing problems. However, the premature loss of baby teeth, retention of baby teeth, thumb- or finger-sucking, accidents and certain types of dental diseases can also result in a need for orthodontic treatment.

Many different types of appliances, both fixed and removable, are used to help move teeth, retrain muscles and affect the growth of the jaws. These appliances work by placing gentle pressure on the teeth and jaws. The severity of your problem will determine which orthodontic approach is likely to be the most effective. 

Orthodontic treatment uses appliances to correct the position of the teeth.
The main types of orthodontic appliances are:
•Fixed braces –  a non-removable appliances made up of brackets that can be metallic or aesthetic (transparent) depending on the preferences of the patient, which are glued to the frontal or the inner surface of each tooth and which are linked with wires
•Removable appliances– usually plastic plates that cover the roof of the mouth and clip on to some teeth; they can carry out tooth movements using active elements or screw for widening the jaws
•Functional appliances – usually one joined appliance for both jaws, which works by controlling the growth of jaws and adapts the function of muscles, tongue and lips.
•Clear aligners: this type of appliance is suitable for everyone that is concerned with aesthetical aspect during the orthodontic treatment and for those who do not want others to notice they have braces. The therapy is consist of series of individually made, transparent, plastic appliances, easy and comfortable to wear and removable for eating and drinking. 
•Other types of appliances are available such as Hyrax, Headgear, Quad Helix, Carriere, face mask (Delaire) and others.

In the past, orthodontic treatment was associated with children and teens, but today many adults seek orthodontic treatment to correct long-standing problems. Orthodontists can help people of any age to achieve a healthy and beautiful smile.

Find out more about orthodontics in the “What to expect” and “FAQ” sections.