Orthodontics
Orthodontics
Orthodontics is a specialized field of dentistry that focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental and facial irregularities. It primarily deals with the alignment and positioning of teeth and jaws to achieve optimal oral health, functionality, and aesthetics.
Orthodontists are dental professionals who specialize in orthodontics. They undergo additional years of training beyond dental school to gain expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of various orthodontic conditions.
One of the primary concerns addressed by orthodontics is malocclusion, which refers to improper alignment of teeth when the jaws are closed. Common examples of malocclusion include overcrowding, spacing issues, overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites. These issues can result in problems with chewing, speaking, and maintaining oral hygiene, as well as impact an individual's self-esteem and overall well-being.