The teeth erupt into the oral cavity according to their respective chronological sequence to be arranged along the jaw bone and within the soft tissue structures outside (lips and check) and inside the mouth (tongue).  However due to variations in teeth and jaw size, variation in number, habits, local factors or pathology teeth can go out of their normal alignment.  This results in aesthetic concerns for the individual and could also result in functional problems in more severe cases. In other instances the person could be at risk of damage to the teeth or soft tissue structure due to being prone to injury during function or unexpected accidents.

Using customized appliances these variations can be treated with good success once the main diagnosis has been done and treatment planned out.

Facial skeletal growth varies between individuals but in general follows a pattern and is classified as Class I, Class II or Class III skeletal growth patterns.

In a Class I growth pattern the maxilla (upper jaw) and mandible (lower jaw) are almost in a straight line when viewed from the side profile.

In a Class II growth pattern the mandible is behind the maxilla.

In a Class III growth pattern the mandible is in front of the maxilla.

This variation translates to a change  in relationship between the upper and lower teeth when a person bites together resulting in either the teeth meeting together as they should (Class I) , teeth sticking out (Class II) or teeth biting in reverse (Class III). There is however some exceptions due to compensation by the surrounding tissues.

Being used lesser in the current trend of treatment this device is helpful in correction of simple occlusal traits such as single tooth in cross bites or as a space maintainers. It is made of a plastic base that holds the various components that are fabricated using wires.

The mainstay of orthodontic treatment; where complex and three dimensional tooth movement and control can be achieved using stainless steel brackets, nickel titanium wires and various auxiliaries. This device involves the use of brackets, bands, wires and elastics to permit the required tooth movement and correction.

Certain features of a person’s developing dentition would be better corrected early as it would prevent it leading to more complex treatment in the future or worsening of the occlusal traits. In more severe cases there could be damage to the involved teeth and surrounding tissue structures.

Interceptive treatment is to provide early treatment for this group of patients that can range from attempts at directing the growth profile to a more favorable one or correction of one or two teeth erupting in the wrong position and then planning for comprehensive treatment once the immediate problems are solved.

Certain individuals may have skeletal profile discrepancies that are too great and no longer within the allowed limits for simple braces. These individuals require surgical correction of the underlying skeletal deformity in order to alleviate their concerns of function and aesthetic.

In some groups of the population; dental specialist from multiple specialized fields, would pool together their efforts in managing a difficult malocclusion such as in patients with cleft lip and palate or patients with multiple missing teeth (hypodontia).

This cooperation will provide a better result as opposed to the orthodontist working alone however usually it will take more time as many discussion sessions will need to be held with both the patient and the various specialists and the orthodontist.