Definition, Scope, and History of Orthodontics
- Orthodontics is a dentistry specialty that addresses mal-positioned teeth and jaws.
- It includes the diagnosis, prevention, management, and correction of these issues.
- Dentofacial orthopedics, which modifies facial growth, is also part of orthodontics.
- Nearly 50% of the developed world's population has malocclusions that can benefit from orthodontic treatment.
- Orthodontic treatment may improve the quality of life for patients.
- Attempts to treat dental disorders date back to 1000 BC.
- Orthodontics as a modern science emerged in the mid-1800s.
- Norman William Kingsley and Edward Angle made significant contributions to the field.
- The concept of ideal occlusion and malocclusion classification system were introduced.
- Extraction and facial aesthetics became important considerations in orthodontic treatment.

Evolution of Orthodontic Techniques
- Cephalometric radiography was used to measure changes in tooth and jaw position.
- Functional appliances and extraoral devices were developed to amend growth patterns.
- The American Journal of Orthodontics was established in 1915.
- Advancements in adhesives allowed for the bonding of metal brackets to teeth.
- Lawrence F. Andrews introduced the straight-wire appliance system in 1976.

Treatment Duration and Approach
- Orthodontic treatment may require several months to a few years.
- Dental braces and other appliances are used to adjust tooth position and jaw alignment.
- Severe malocclusions may require jaw surgery as part of the treatment plan.
- Treatment usually begins before adulthood for easier adjustment of pre-adult bones.
- Diets low in fresh fruits and vegetables contribute to the prevalence of malocclusions.

Impact and Benefits of Orthodontics
- The health benefits of orthodontic treatment lack conclusive scientific evidence.
- Completed orthodontic treatment has been reported to improve quality of life.
- Orthodontics can improve facial harmony and aesthetics.
- Ideal occlusion and intact dentition are now prioritised in orthodontic treatment.
- Orthodontics aims to achieve proper interarchal relationships and tooth alignment.

Orthodontic Appliances and Techniques
- Orthodontic appliances are divided into removable and fixed types.
- Fixed appliances use rectangular archwires for tooth alignment.
- The Tip-Edge system allows for precise control of tooth movement.
- Edward Angle created four appliance systems used in orthodontics.
- The edgewise appliance became a mainstay for multibanded fixed therapy.
- Automatic rotational control and alteration in bracket slot dimensions are techniques used in orthodontics.
- Upper and lower jaw functional expanders are used for malocclusion treatment.
- Braces, including clear aligners, are commonly used for orthodontic treatment.
- Jaw surgery may be required for severe malocclusions.
- Low-level laser therapy, vibratory devices, and other methods can be used to reduce pain during treatment.
- Over 50% of patients experience relapse within 10 years following orthodontic treatment.
- Retainers are used to prevent relapse.
- Clear aligners, such as Invisalign or Byte, are a popular form of orthodontic treatment.
- Different countries have their own systems for training and registering orthodontic specialists.