HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What is the purpose of adjunctive orthodontics?

1. To enhance the appearance of teeth

2. To correct or restore function

3. To provide pain relief during treatment

4. To improve overall dental hygiene

The correct answer is: To correct or restore function

The purpose of adjunctive orthodontics is primarily to correct or restore function. This area of orthodontics involves additional treatments that aid in improving the functional aspects of teeth and jaws, especially when traditional orthodontic methods alone may not achieve the desired results. For instance, adjunctive procedures can include various treatments to facilitate bite alignment, improve jaw relationships, and ensure that the patient can chew and speak effectively. Enhancing the appearance of teeth is certainly an important aspect of orthodontics but is more of a result of treatments rather than the primary purpose of adjunctive orthodontics. While adjunctive treatments may indirectly lead to improved aesthetics, their main goal is to address functional issues, making the correction of bites and improvement of overall oral function the key focus. Pain relief during treatment is generally associated with pain management strategies rather than a direct goal of adjunctive orthodontics. Although improving overall dental hygiene is crucial for oral health, it typically relates more to practices and protocols employed during orthodontic treatment rather than the specific functions of adjunctive orthodontic procedures.