Principle : a large force exerted continuously over a long period of time on the teeth enables them to move, thanks to constant apposition and resorption of the alveolar backbone surrounding the roots.

It thus enables the aesthetic and functional optimization of dental arches and the correction of malocclusions. In addition to aesthetics, it also promotes the functions of mastication, phonation, breathing, deglutition and growth. Normalizing reflex functions must be the priority of all orthodontic treatment. In fact, there are several opposing philosophies (gnathological versus mechanistic) concerning the place of rehabilitation in treatment. It's also worth mentioning that aligned teeth are easier to clean, which is a form of prevention against cavities and periodontosis.

Dentofacial orthopedics should preferably be performed on younger individuals, but some treatments can also be offered to adults. Teeth can be moved from the age of 4 (especially for orthopedic treatments) to advanced age (for tooth position), with children, however, habituating more quickly than adults. Once the growth period is over, it is no longer possible to modify the size and posture of the jaws, unless you go through maxillofacial surgery (orthopedics, cf. infra). It should be noted, however, that in recent years orthodontics has become an increasingly common practice among adults1,2.