What does orthodontics mean?
Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that deals with the diagnosis, prevention, and correction of irregularities involving the teeth and jaws. Its work may include addressing crowded or misaligned teeth, bite problems, and abnormalities in jaw development. Treatment commonly uses removable appliances, fixed braces, retainers, or other devices to gradually move teeth into more appropriate positions and to help maintain the result. The term is also used more broadly to refer to the professional field concerned with these matters, including its research, diagnosis, and treatment methods. In everyday speech, people may simply say that someone “has orthodontics,” especially in British English, although “has orthodontic treatment” is more explicit and formal. The word is derived from Greek roots associated with straightness and teeth, reflecting the discipline’s central concern with dental and jaw alignment.
nounThe branch of dentistry concerned with the diagnosis, prevention, and correction of irregularities in the position of the teeth and jaws.
- The branch of dentistry concerned with diagnosing, preventing, and correcting irregularities in the position of the teeth and jaws.
"She is pursuing a specialist qualification in orthodontics."
"The clinic provides orthodontic treatment for children and adults."
"Her expertise in orthodontics led to a specialist practice focused on jaw alignment."
The word is plural in form but is normally used to denote the branch of dentistry as a whole; in less formal British usage, “having orthodontics” means undergoing orthodontic treatment.
"She has been having orthodontics since her early teens."
Orthodontics comes from Greek roots meaning “straight” and “tooth,” a fitting name for the specialty that helps straighten teeth and jaws.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of orthodontics
The word was formed in the late 19th century from Greek orthos, meaning “straight” or “correct,” and odous, meaning “tooth.” The underlying concept had earlier appeared in the adjective orthodontic, referring to straight or correctly aligned teeth and jaws. Its development coincided with the emergence of modern dentistry as a specialized scientific discipline.
How orthodontics is actually used
The term is used mainly in professional and educational contexts. Although its form is plural, it normally denotes the field or discipline as a whole.