Which dental condition is often evaluated for orthodontic treatment?

Malocclusion, or the misalignment of the teeth, is a primary condition that orthodontists assess when determining the need for orthodontic treatment. This condition occurs when the upper and lower teeth do not fit together correctly, which can lead to various dental issues, including difficulty in chewing, jaw discomfort, and an increased risk of tooth wear or damage. Orthodontic treatment aims to correct these misalignments by using braces or other devices to move the teeth into the proper alignment, thereby improving both function and aesthetic appearance.

In contrast to malocclusion, gingivitis primarily concerns the health of the gums as it involves inflammation due to plaque buildup, which would not typically require orthodontic intervention. Cavities are related to tooth decay and focus on restorative dental work rather than alignment issues, while temporomandibular disorders pertain to problems with the jaw joint and muscles—not necessarily requiring orthodontic treatment unless there is a direct relationship to the alignment of the teeth. Therefore, the focus of orthodontic evaluation is distinctly geared toward malocclusion and correcting these alignment problems.