In the first place, the Orthodontist will carry out a clinical examination of the patient where he will carefully check all orofacial structures, including the mouth. A medical record will  be filled out, where the clinician will establish the presence or absence of cavities, characteristics of the gums, patient’s oral hygiene, and all surrounding soft tissues (for example, lips and cheeks).

The way the patient breathes and swallows will also be recorded, as well as their posture. After this examination and observations, a series of questions regarding the overall health of the patient will be asked, since many systemic diseases have a clear impact on oral health.

Finally, occlusion (the way the patient bites), tooth malpositions and the relationship with the size of face bones will be evaluated, as well as all the fundamental smile parameters established nowadays.

Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that is specialized and dedicated to the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dentofacial anomalies.

It is the specialty responsible for teeth alignment, correction of malocclusions, guidance of teeth eruption and the development of the jaws, seeking for balance in the stomatognathic system, the cervical and dorsal spine and last but not least, aesthetic harmony for the face.

Orthodontics requires professional skills in order to use and control corrective appliances, but most importantly, it requires the knowledge to guide the growth of face bones. Orthodontists must first achieve a bachelor’s degree in Dentistry and then continue with a postgraduate program at universities or entities recognized by the local Health Ministry.