Orthodontics is a specialization that focuses on the normal structure and development, anomalies, and treatment of the teeth, jaw, and facial complex.
Orthodontic treatment generally involves the use of corrective appliances such as braces to straighten and move teeth and correct their alignment. The upper and lower jaws, dental arches, supporting tissues, lips, cheeks, and tongue are all included in the scope of orthodontic treatment. The aim of this treatment is to improve the appearance and functionality of teeth.
Orthodontic treatment corrects dental misalignments and malocclusion between the jaws. It not only focuses on aesthetics but also helps to prevent future gum diseases and problems with the lower jaw joint. Additionally, it can help to correct chewing function and speech problems. The proper alignment of teeth and jaws is a crucial factor that affects all breathing and chewing functions. The main goal of orthodontic treatment is to correct chewing and speech functions, improve oral hygiene, provide aesthetics, and boost the patient’s confidence in social settings by offering psychological support.
Orthodontic treatment is primarily divided into three groups. The first is preventive orthodontic treatment, which aims to prevent malocclusion from occurring. All measures taken to achieve this goal fall under this category. The second is interceptive orthodontic treatment, which is based on stopping the progression of malocclusion by eliminating its causes. For example, eliminating factors such as thumb-sucking or mouth breathing can prevent an open bite from forming. The last group is corrective orthodontic treatment, which includes all types of orthodontic treatments.