Why do I need orthodontics? It can enhance chewing function and help digestion and nutrient absorption. Oral hygiene is easy to maintain and can prevent dental caries and periodontal disease. Aesthetic facial shape, beautiful teeth, confidence in yourself and gain normal personality development. Improve other oral functions: such as articulation, lip closure, avoiding dryness of oral mucosa and improving resistance of the mouth to infection. Other: such as the need for restoration, treatment of jaw interference, treatment of temporomandibular joint disease, etc. Wang Yuanlin, Department of Orthodontics, Beijing Aerospace General Hospital What is the best time for orthodontics? A small number of patients need orthodontic treatment during the period of milk teeth to remove bad habits and guide the normal development of bones and permanent teeth, and some patients need orthodontic treatment before the age of 10 to guide the normal development of facial shape and correct the abnormal development of upper and lower jaws (if the treatment is delayed, the facial shape and abnormal development of jaws can only be improved by major surgical treatment after adulthood). In general, the best time for orthodontic treatment is during the peak of development. Orthodontic treatment modalities are those? 1, movable braces: orthodontic treatment for milk teeth is often movable braces. 2, functional braces: improve facial shape, guide normal jaw development, and readjust the neuromuscular balance of the mouth and jaw. For some children with abnormal jaw development (especially children before the developmental period) to routinely carry out this treatment to achieve better treatment results. 3, fixed orthodontic appliances: classification methods, new orthodontic appliances are emerging. Mainly: metal brackets braces: characterized by the relatively low cost of braces, convenient and fast, is the most commonly used braces. There are many fine classifications for different patients. Clear brackets aligners: characterized by not being easily visible and costing more than metal braces. They are more suitable for adults. Invisiline (invisible braces): These braces are made of a transparent plastic material and are basically invisible when worn. How much time does orthodontic treatment take? The duration of orthodontic treatment depends on the patient’s age, cooperation and the severity of the case. Simple partial treatment takes only a few months, while typical full orthodontic treatment takes about one and a half to two years. Some patients must first undergo functional orthodontic treatment before fixed orthodontic treatment, or require combined orthodontic and orthognathic treatment, which also takes relatively longer. What is the difference between adult orthodontics and pediatric orthodontics? The principles and treatment procedures of adult orthodontics are the same as those of children’s orthodontics. However, due to the difference in age, adults are basically finished with their growth spurt, so the treatment will take longer and the time to wear retainers after treatment is finished is also longer. Adults generally have oral diseases such as periodontal disease, residual crowns, and residual roots, which need to be treated in conjunction with oral diseases. In addition, adults mostly require more concealed orthodontic appliances.