Definition: An orthodontist is a specialized dentist who diagnoses, prevents, and treats dental and facial irregularities. They are experts in managing tooth movement (orthodontics) and guiding facial development (dentofacial orthopedics). Orthodontists use braces, aligners, and other appliances to correct misaligned teeth and jaws for functional and aesthetic purposes.
Etymology and Origin: The term ‘orthodontist’ combines the Greek word ‘orthos’, meaning ‘straight’ or ‘correct’, and ‘odont’, meaning ‘tooth’. The suffix ‘-ist’ denotes a practitioner or specialist. The field of orthodontics as a dental speciality emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with increasing focus on correcting dental anomalies for improved oral health and appearance.
