The orthodontist assesses and verifies the presence of malocclusions by performing several diagnostic tests:

• clinical examination;

• panoramic radiography and teleradiography to look at the teeth, jaw and soft tissues to get a complete picture of the skull and neck;

• fingerprints;

• photographs of the smile, inside of the mouth and face.

Data collection is used to get clear measurements of the space available, whether the teeth in the mouth have enough space to grow well aligned, whether the bone structures are in harmony, and whether aesthetics can be improved.

The most suitable appliance for the intended treatment plan is applied:

• mobile appliance: according to the plan it is to be used at certain times;

• fixed appliance: with or without attachments, it is placed and checked regularly;

• extraoral traction appliance: it is an additional support outside the mouth to increase the effect of the fixed appliance.

Applying braces is the active phase of the orthodontic process. Teeth are moved and set into the correct position. The bite, or occlusion, is also corrected.

After the orthodontic examination, the options, treatment plan, and choice of the most appropriate device to be used to achieve the expected results are discussed.

Periodic checkups allow progress to be assessed, elastics and wires to be replaced if damaged, and any problems to be corrected in a timely and effective manner.

When the result is achieved, braces are removed. During life, teeth, like other parts of the body, change. If the results obtained are to be kept constant over time, braces can be fitted or used, to be worn as and when needed.