Big Decision: Choosing Braces, Aligners, or Orthopedic Jaw-Airway Growing Appliances

This article delves into the critical considerations for selecting braces, aligners, and orthopedic jaw-growing appliances in orthodontic treatment. It draws on evidence-based research to elucidate the factors influencing these choices and examines scenarios where a combination of these modalities offers the optimal outcome for patients.

The history of orthodontic tooth movement goes back many centuries, perhaps even millennia. Many agree that a quantum leap occurred about 120 years ago when Edward Angle developed fixed orthodontic appliances, the predecessor of modern braces.

The creation of fixed orthodontic braces greatly enhanced the predictability and effectiveness of teeth straightening. In parallel, many practitioners enjoyed the benefits of working with removable appliances to improve tooth and jaw alignment.