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Introduction

Figure 1.1 The scope of orthodontic treatment. Orthodontics can be used for (A) the correction of malocclusion, (B) to facilitate restorative treatment, (C) to aid surgical correction of severe skeletal discrepancies, (D) to facilitate the treatment of cleft lip and palate, and (E) for the comprehensive management of craniofacial deformity as in this patient with Sturge—Weber syndrome.

Figure 1.2 A risk–benefit analysis should be undertaken before commencing orthodontic treatment. Only if the benefits outweigh the risks should treatment be undertaken.

Orthodontics is the specialty of dentistry concerned with growth and development of the face and dentition, and the diagnosis, prevention and correction of dental and facial irregularities. The word orthodontics comes from the Greek words ortho meaning straight and odons meaning tooth.

The scope of orthodontic treatment

Orthodontic treatment is commonly undertaken for the management of malocclusion. Malocclusion is any deviation from normal or ideal occlusion. It should not be considered as a disease but a variation of normal. When such a deviation impacts on an individual’s psychological or dental health one should consider orthodontic treatment.

Besides the management of malocclusion, orthodontics is increasingly being undertaken to enhance the results of other forms of dental and surgical treatment (multidisciplinary care, Figure 1.1A–E). For example, orthodontics c/>

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