Orthodontic is a specialty of dentistry that addresses the diagnosis, prevention, management, and correction of misaligned teeth and jaws, as well as misaligned bite patterns. It can also involve changing facial growth, known as dentofacial orthopedics.
Abnormal alignment of teeth and jaws is very common. According to the American Orthodontic Association, nearly 50% of the population in the developed world has malocclusions severe enough to benefit from orthodontic treatment, although this figure drops to less than 10% according to the same AAO statement when it comes to medically necessary orthodontics. However, conclusive scientific evidence of the health benefits of orthodontic treatment is lacking, although patients who completed treatment reported a higher quality of life than untreated patients undergoing orthodontic treatment. The main reason for the prevalence of these malocclusions is a diet that includes fewer fresh fruits and vegetables and overall softer foods during childhood, resulting in smaller jaws with less space for teeth to erupt. Treatment can take several months to a few years and involves the use of braces and other devices to gradually adjust the position of the teeth and the alignment of the jaw. In cases where malocclusion is severe, jaw surgery may be included in the treatment plan. Treatment usually begins before a person reaches adulthood, as pre-adult bones can adjust more easily before adulthood.


