Orthodontics And Orthodontic Treatment

Alternate Terms:
  • Orthodontics
  • Orthodontic Treatment
 Begin Learning with Healthy Advice:
Braces, Orthodontics & Cosmetic Dentistry



Orthodontics And Orthodontic Treatment Definition by Healthwise:

Orthodontics and orthodontic treatment

Orthodontics is a dental specialty of fixing malaligned teeth and jaws.

Orthodontic treatment can correct a poor bite (malocclusion) by removing teeth (extraction) or by using devices (appliances) or surgery to move teeth.

Orthodontists are medical specialists who have at least 2 years of extra training after dental school. They are skilled in using any combination of extraction, braces (fixed appliances), or removable appliances to move the teeth and reshape the jaw.

Author: Jeannette Curtis
Medical Review: Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Last Updated: May 25, 2007

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