Word Study
orthodontics
CIDE DICTIONARY
orthodontics, n.
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]
OXFORD DICTIONARY
orthodontics, n.pl. (treated as sing.) (also orthodontia) the treatment of irregularities in the teeth and jaws.
Derivative
orthodontic adj. orthodontist n.
Etymology
ORTHO- + Gk odous odont- tooth
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