Orthodontics

Orthodontics is ‘the specialty of dentistry concerned with growth of the face, the development of dentition, and the prevention and correction of occlusal anomalies. A malocclusion can be defined as ‘a deviation from the ideal that may be aesthetically or functionally unsatisfactory, with a wide range of occlusal traits’. Orthodontics is a constantly evolving specialty, with ever changing principles and techniques continuing to be developed. There has been huge progress in orthodontics in recent times, with changes in the types of brackets, archwire materials, and appliance systems (such as tem­porary anchorage devices and aligner technology). The key principles of orthodontics date back to 1899 when Edward Angle described ‘the key to a normal occlusion as the anteropos­terior relationship between the upper and lower first molars’. In 1972, Lawrence Andrews described ‘six keys to an ideal static occlusion’. This was the basis of early orthodontic treatment planning. Knowledge of craniofacial development and growth is required as a foundation for understanding the aetiology of a patient’s malocclusion, to reach a diagnosis, and to plan orthodontic treatment. A basic under­standing of the types of orthodontic appliances is beneficial (mainly fixed appliances, functional appliances, some use of removable appliances, and retainers). In addition to the management of a malocclusion, orthodontic treat­ment is often required in conjunction with other specialties, including oral and maxillofacial surgery, paediatric and restorative dentistry Key topics discussed in this chapter include: ● Fixed appliances ● Functional appliances ● Removable appliances ● Retention ● Index of treatment need ● Orthodontic assessment and diagnosis ● Cephalometric analysis ● Malocclusion ● Ectopic canines ● Dental anomalies.