orthodontics

The area of dentistry concerned with the supervision, guidance, and correction of the growing and mature dentofacial structures. This includes conditions that require movement of the teeth or correction of malrelationships and malformations of related structures by the adjustment of relationships between and among teeth and facial bones by the application of forces or the stimulation and redirection of functional forces within the craniofacial complex. Major responsibilities of orthodontic practice include (1) the diagnosis, prevention, interception, and treatment of all forms of malocclusion of the teeth and associated alterations in their surrounding structures; (2) design, application, and control of functional and corrective appliances; and (3) guidance of the dentition and its supporting structures to attain and maintain optimum occlusal relations in physiologic and esthetic harmony among facial and cranial structures. Also called dentofacial orthopedics.