orthodontics n 1: the branch of dentistry dealing with the prevention or correction of irregularities of the teeth [syn: {orthodontics}, {orthodontia}, {orthodonture}, {dental orthopedics}, {dental orthopaedics}]
orthodontics \orthodontics\ n. (Med.) A branch of dentistry specializing in the treatment of the teeth so as to make the teeth align properly within the mouth; it usually involves fitting a patient with braces and sometimes oral surgery. [PJC]