orthodontics

[awr-thuh-don-tiks]

noun

(used with a singular verb)

1. the branch of dentistry dealing with the prevention and correction of irregular teeth, as by means of braces.

orthodontics

/ ˌɔːθəʊˈdɒntɪks, ˌɔːθəʊˈdɒntɪə /

noun

1. Also called: dental orthopaedics. (functioning as singular) the branch of dentistry concerned with preventing or correcting irregularities of the teeth

Other Word Forms

• orthodontist noun
• orthodontic adjective
• orthodontal adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of orthodontics¹

First recorded in 1905–10; orth- + -odont + -ics

Example Sentences

The university has also suspended new student intake for 28 of its courses, including postgraduate degrees in sociology, language and linguistics and orthodontics.

From BBC

In a statement to The Times, Ting’s wife defended her husband and his work in the orthodontics clinic.

From Los Angeles Times

That would more than cover the orthodontics bill.

From Los Angeles Times

It is calling on watchdogs in the UK to ensure any firm providing orthodontics directly to patients in the UK are held to high standards.

From BBC

SmileDirectClub’s services, which are cheaper than traditional orthodontics because they often do not involve in-person visits, have drawn criticism from dentist and orthodontist groups.

From New York Times