Understanding Orthodontic Treatment Classifications: A Comprehensive Guide

1. Preventive orthodontics: This type of treatment aims to prevent orthodontic problems from developing or to intercept them at an early stage, before they become more severe. Preventive orthodontic treatment may include things like:

* Using space maintainers to prevent teeth from shifting after a baby tooth is lost

* Habit counseling to help children break habits like thumb sucking or tongue thrusting that can lead to orthodontic problems

* Early intervention to correct minor problems like crowding or spacing before they become more severe

2. Interceptive orthodontics: This type of treatment aims to correct orthodontic problems that have already developed, but that are still relatively mild. Interceptive orthodontic treatment may include things like:

3. Corrective orthodontics: This type of treatment aims to correct severe orthodontic problems that have not been addressed with preventive or interceptive orthodontics. Corrective orthodontic treatment may include things like:

* Braces or aligners to straighten teeth

* Surgery to correct jaw problems or other severe irregularities