•  
  •  

Orthodontics and Orthodontic Treatment

Orthodontics is a dental specialty of fixing malaligned teeth and jaws.

Orthodontic treatment can correct a poor bite (malocclusion) by removing teeth (extraction) or by using devices (appliances) or surgery to move teeth.

Orthodontists are medical specialists who have at least 2 years of extra training after dental school. They are skilled in using any combination of extraction, braces (fixed appliances), or removable appliances to move the teeth and reshape the jaw.

Last Revised: January 11, 2011

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine & William F. Hohlt, DDS - Orthodontics

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

To learn more visit Healthwise.org

© 1995-2012 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.