Orthodontics is the specialised branch of dentistry, dealing broadly with improving the appearance & positions of the teeth and jaw bones. The aim of Orthodontics is to produce better functioning teeth and more attractive smiles. Orthodontics is the oldest established specialist branch of dentistry and one of only 2 recognised throughout the European Union.

Orthodontics can be carried out at almost all ages.

Although the average age is in the early ‘teens, a good time to have an initial Orthodontic assessment is around age 8 or 9, because at that age all of the adult teeth are forming and the adult face is developing, Developing problems can be diagnosed and, if possible, intercepted - thereby minimising, and occasionally, eliminating the need for complex treatment at later age. Even if treatment at age 8 or 9 is is not necessary, early assessment will permit your Orthodontist to monitor the development of your child and the malocclusion, and enable treatment to be commenced at the optimal time.

Adults are also increasingly seeking Orthodontic treatment. This is partly because adults are more aware of the benefits of Orthodontic treatment, but also because modern braces are visually less intrusive than they were in the past.

To become an Orthodontist, one must first qualify as a dentist, after which general experience must be gained in many fields within dentistry. Following this, post-graduate examinations must be passed before acceptance on a recognised Orthodontic training programme. These recognised training programmes involve a 3-year full time course in Orthodontics. Worldwide there is a shortage of these training programmes because of the cost of running them, and the Republic of Ireland is no exception.

The Orthodontic Society of Ireland is the professional body representing the majority of the Orthodontists in Ireland. In order to become a member of the Orthodontic Society of Ireland, is necessary to have completed one of the recognised 3-year training programme in Orthodontics.