Which specialty is focused on correcting malocclusion?

The specialty that focuses on correcting malocclusion is orthodontics. Orthodontics is dedicated to diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental and facial irregularities, which often involve misalignment of the teeth and jaws. Malocclusion refers to the improper positioning of the teeth when the jaws close, which can lead to various oral health issues, including difficulty in chewing, speech problems, and even aesthetic concerns. Treatments typically include braces or aligners that progressively shift teeth into the desired position, improving both functionality and appearance.

In contrast, periodontics primarily deals with the health of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth, while endodontics focuses on the inside of the tooth, specifically the dental pulp and root canal treatments. General dentistry encompasses a wide range of oral health services but does not specialize specifically in the correction of malocclusion like orthodontics does.