There are several factors to be considered in orthodontic/ braces diagnosis and treatment planning. First, the orthodontist must recognize the different characteristics of malocclusion and dentofacial deformity. The orthodontist must also determine the nature and cause of the problem and design an orthodontic/ braces treatment plan based on the specific needs and desires of the patient. Finally, the orthodontist must present the orthodontic/ braces treatment strategy to the patient and family in a way that they fully recognize the implications of the decision. Most patients consider facial appearance as an important factor in the end-result of orthodontic/ braces treatment, which is why during the orthodontic/ braces treatment planning, the orthodontist must inform the patient the effects of each option not only to the dental occlusion but also with its effect of the facial features.
As with every procedure in the dental field, the aim of diagnosis is to determine the patient’s problems and create the possible treatment options for the benefit of the orthodontic/ braces patient. The priority of the orthodontic/ braces treatment is based on the patient’s needs and desires. When feasible orthodontic/ braces treatments plan are formulated, the orthodontist discusses them with the patient so that they can decide on which treatment option to embark.
A feasible orthodontic/ braces treatment plan can be established by the nature and severity of the orthodontic problem. For any characteristic of malocclusion, there are three ranges of correction. The first is the amount that can be accomplished by orthodontic tooth movement alone. Second is the correction that can be achieved by tooth movement plus functional or orthopedic treatment. Lastly is the amount that requires surgery as part of the orthodontic/ braces treatment plan.
