Orthodontics deals with the diagnosis, prevention and correction of “crooked” (malocclusions) teeth and jaws. It can also focus on modifying facial growth, known as braces (dentofacial orthopedics).
Nearly 30% of patients have abnormal alignment of the teeth severe enough to benefit from orthodontic treatment.
Treatment can take several months to a few years, it involves the use of dental braces and other appliances to slowly move the teeth and jaws around.
Orthodontic treatment is usually started before a person reaches adulthood since bones can more easily be moved around in children.
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.
