Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that specializes in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. The technical term for these problems is "malocclusion," which means "bad bite". The practice of orthodontics requires professional skill in the design, application and control of corrective appliances, such as braces, to bring teeth, lips and jaws into proper alignment and to achieve facial balance.

All orthodontists are dentists, but only about 6 percent of dentists are orthodontists. An orthodontist is a specialist in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. Orthodontists must first attend university for an undergraduate degree and then complete a four-year dental graduate program at a university dental school accredited by the Canadian Dental Association (CDA). They must then successfully complete an additional three-year post-graduate program of advanced education in orthodontics.

Through this training, the orthodontist learns the skills required to manage tooth movement (orthodontics) and guide facial development (dentofacial orthopaedics).

Only dentists who have successfully completed this advanced specialty education may call themselves orthodontists.

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