HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What type of orthodontics focuses on appliances to maintain space for developing teeth?

1. Interceptive orthodontics

2. Preventive orthodontics

3. Corrective orthodontics

4. Retentive orthodontics

The correct answer is: Preventive orthodontics

Preventive orthodontics is centered on the strategies and appliances that help in maintaining space for developing teeth, particularly in growing children. This approach aims to prevent potential dental issues by ensuring that there is adequate space for permanent teeth to erupt. By using techniques such as space maintainers or other orthodontic appliances, dental professionals can guide the growth of the jaw and alignment of the incoming teeth. This proactive measure minimizes the likelihood of crowding or misalignment, ultimately reducing the need for more extensive corrective procedures later on. The other types of orthodontics serve different purposes: interceptive orthodontics addresses issues as they arise during the growth phase, corrective orthodontics deals with fixing existing alignment problems, and retentive orthodontics focuses on maintaining the position of teeth following active orthodontic treatment. Each plays a specific role in overall dental health but does not primarily emphasize space maintenance for developing teeth as preventive orthodontics does.