Patient-friendly definition from the DentistsDirectory.org dental glossary.
Orthodontics is the dental specialty dedicated to diagnosing and correcting the position, alignment, and relationship of the teeth and jaws. An orthodontist completes two to three additional years of specialty training after dental school, focused exclusively on the mechanics of tooth movement and the management of bite relationships (occlusion). Orthodontic treatment can be initiated in children as young as 7 for interceptive treatment, and is increasingly common in adults of any age.
Traditional braces use metal or ceramic brackets bonded to the teeth, connected by archwires that are progressively tightened to move teeth through the bone. They are highly effective for complex tooth movements and bite correction and remain the gold standard for severe malocclusion. Clear aligner systems (Invisalign and its competitors) use a series of custom-made transparent trays that are changed every one to two weeks, each slightly repositioning the teeth. Aligners are removable, more aesthetically discreet, and more comfortable for most patients, but are better suited for mild to moderate cases. Your orthodontist can advise which approach will achieve your specific goals more effectively.
While straighter teeth and an improved smile are the most visible results of orthodontic treatment, the functional benefits are equally significant. Correcting a poor bite can reduce uneven tooth wear, make cleaning more effective (reducing long-term decay and gum disease risk in crowded areas), improve jaw joint function, and occasionally improve speech clarity. Retention after orthodontic treatment is lifelong — teeth will shift back without retainer wear, which is why virtually all orthodontists provide both removable and fixed retainers after completing treatment.