Orthodontics is the specialty of dentistry concerned with the study and treatment of improper jaw bites, which may be a result of tooth irregularity or disproportionate jaw relationships. Orthodontic treatment can either focus on dental displacement, or can deal with the control and modification of facial growth, all of which improve occlusion – the contact and spacing between teeth.

 

Common orthodontic work includes the fitting of metal wire braces (or recently, clear plastic aligners), retainers and corrective jaw surgery (in collaboration with an oral surgeon), which aims to correct over or under-bites in order to better align the teeth and jaws. Orthodontic treatment is normal complemented with retention methods to maintain the dental work done, such as meticulous oral hygiene and the use of retainers to help keep teeth in their new place and form.