What is Orthodontics?

“Orthodontics is one of the Specialist areas of Dentistry. It is concerned with the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of problems relating to:

1. The alignment of the teeth within the jaw ( Crooked Teeth).

2. The alignment of the upper jaw  (called the “Maxilla”)  to the lower jaw (called the “Mandible”), which is referred to as the Occlusion (“Bite”). Problems relating to the bite are referred to as “malocclusion”, which literally means “bad bite”.

The photos below show a “good” dentition in the adult and child’s teeth.

Permanent dentition

       

Mixed Dentition

  

Summary of orthodontic problems
Habits that cause problems
Some common malocclusions
Some treatment benefits
Ideal occlusion