Kokkas Alexandros

Principle: applying significant force continuously over a long period of time to the teeth allows them to move, thanks to constant apposition and resorption ofthe alveolar bone surrounding the roots.

This optimizes the aesthetics and function of the dental arches and corrects malocclusions. It thus promotes aesthetics as well as functions such as chewing, phonation, breathing, swallowing, and growth. Normalizing reflex functions should be the priority of any orthodontic treatment. In practice, there are several conflicting philosophies (gnathological versus mechanistic) regarding the role of rehabilitation in treatment. It should also be mentioned that aligned teeth are easier to clean, which is a form of prevention against cavities and periodontitis.

Dentofacial orthopedics should preferably be performed on young individuals, but some treatments can also be offered to adults. Teeth can be moved from the age of 4 (especially for orthopedic treatments) to an advanced age (for tooth position), although children adapt more quickly than adults. Once the growth period is over, it is no longer possible to change the size and posture of the jaws, unless maxillofacial surgery(orthopedics, see below) is performed. It should be noted, however, that orthodontics has become increasingly common amongadults in recent years.