Orthodontics

Orthodontics is a specialty of dentistry that is concerned with the study and treatment of malocclusions (improper bites), which may be a result of tooth irregularity, disproportionate jaw relationships, or both.

Orthodontic treatment can focus on dental displacement only, or can deal with the control and modification of facial growth. In the latter case it is better defined as "dentofacial orthopedics". Orthodontic treatment can be carried out for purely aesthetic reasons - improving the general appearance of patients' teeth and face for cosmetic reasons- but treatment is often prescribed for practical reasons, providing the patient with a functionally improved bite (occlusion).

A special field in dentistry which involves diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of bite abnormalities or facial irregularities

Diagnosis and treatment planning

In diagnosis and treatment planning, the orthodontist must (1) recognize the various characteristics of malocclusion and dentofacial deformity; (2) define the nature of the problem, including the etiology if possible; and (3) design a treatment strategy based on the specific needs and desires of the individual. (4) present the treatment strategy to the patient in such a way that the patient fully understands the ramifications of his/her decision.

Occlusion and Malocclusion

A major goal of comprehensive orthodontic treatment is improving the patient's bite, or occlusion. "Occlusion of the teeth means the meeting together of upper and lower teeth." [J.W. Osborn, Dental Anatomy and Embryology, p.299, Blackwell Scientific Publications,1981, Vol. 1, Book 2.]

Malocclusion is the term used to describe states in which the bite departs from the normal and this may occur in any one or more of three planes of space. The best known classification system for describing malocclusion is that of E.H. Angle, but his terminology is limited to one plane of space (the anterior-posterior dimension). In Angle's classification, an occlusion is normal if and only if the molars are in "Class I" positions.

Malocclusion is not a disease, but it might be associated with various dysfunctions of the head and neck, known as Cranio-Mandibular Dysfunctions, or CMD. Dysfunction of an organ or organ system is defined as disease. Some dentists, therefore, believe that orthodontists can prevent or treat certain diseases of the head and neck by means of treating specific occlusal dysfunctions.