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

Explanation

Someone who specializes in straightening teeth is an expert in orthodontics. If you have braces, you know a lot about orthodontics, from brackets and rubber bands to the nasty retainers you're forced to wear after the braces have been shed. Dentists who focus on correcting crooked teeth are in the field of orthodontics. Sometimes orthodontics are as straightforward as a year of metal braces, but in other cases a patient might require surgery to correct the problems with their teeth and jaw. These procedures, as well as retainers and braces, are known as orthodonture, and the expert in charge is an orthodontist. The Greek roots of all these words are orthos, "straight," and odont, "tooth."

Example Sentences

Regular tuition for international students in the Orthodontics Clinic ranges from $57,000 to $70,000.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 19, 2025

"Orthodontics looks simple but it is a complex medical procedure and should start with an in-person exam and good diagnostic records," he said.

From BBC • Dec. 22, 2023

A Facebook post from Thrive Dental and Orthodontics, where she worked, said she was “the sweetest, most beautiful soul with the kindest heart.”

From Seattle Times • May 21, 2023

The second plaintiff, Kelley Orthodontics, is a Christian "professional association" owned by a man named John Kelley.

From Salon • Apr. 5, 2023

“Lupi Orthodontics in North Stafford gave us $10,000 at the beginning of last school year,” said White.

From Washington Times • Aug. 30, 2020