Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry associated with the straightening and repositioning of teeth.
Orthopaedic orthodontics takes a more comprehensive view of ‘crooked teeth’ by understanding the causes of the problem in the first instance. Usually this is due to the under-development and position of the jaws that hold the teeth. This in turn has implications on the jaw joints (TMJ) and how they influence the bones of the skull.
The aim of orthopaedic orthodontic treatment is to correct these issues as well as correcting ‘crooked teeth’ with braces. This treatment can be started in children at an earlier age than conventional orthodontics to make later treatment easier. However, the same principles can be applied to older children and adults.