orthodontics

American  

[awr-thuh-don-tiks] / ˌɔr θəˈdɒn tɪks /

noun

(used with a singular verb)

1. the branch of dentistry dealing with the prevention and correction of irregular teeth, as by means of braces.

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orthodontics British  

/ ˌɔːθəʊˈdɒntɪks, ˌɔːθəʊˈdɒntɪə /

noun

1. Also called: dental orthopaedics.  (functioning as singular) the branch of dentistry concerned with preventing or correcting irregularities of the teeth

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Other Word Forms

• orthodontal adjective
• orthodontic adjective
• orthodontist noun

Etymology

Origin of orthodontics

First recorded in 1905–10; orth- + -odont + -ics

Compare meaning

How does orthodontics compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• orthodontia vs. orthodontics

Example Sentences

Bui, 27, who grew up in South L.A., said that obtaining the certificate led to her job at a private dental practice in Lakewood, where she specialized in orthodontics, adjusting braces and handling other tasks.

From Los Angeles Times

The university has also suspended new student intake for 28 of its courses, including postgraduate degrees in sociology, language and linguistics and orthodontics.

From BBC

Previously, The Times reported that certain orthodontics residents were required to pay extra fees and that the professors received incentive and bonus compensation based on the payments.

From Los Angeles Times

That would more than cover the orthodontics bill.

From Los Angeles Times

It is calling on watchdogs in the UK to ensure any firm providing orthodontics directly to patients in the UK are held to high standards.

From BBC