Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that is officially known as Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics. The purpose of orthodontics is to treat any type of malocclusion, which is simply another way of saying "bad bite".

 

When you have a malocclusion, that means your teeth, lips and/or jaws don't line up the way they should. As a result, your teeth may be croocked, your bite may not work correctly and your jaws may look unbalanced.

 

To fix bad bites, orthodontists-dentists who are specially trained-use braces and other corrective procedures, including materials often called "appliances", to achieve tooth and jaw allignment. This correction of the teeth and theirsupportive structures makes for a healthy, attractive smile.