Samenvatting

GENERAL INTRODUCTION
Fixed orthodontic treatment Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry concerned with facial growth and the development of the dentition, and with occlusion and the prevention and correction of occlusal anomalies [1]. Approximately 53-57% of Dutch 12-year olds undergo orthodontic treatment—some 100,000 patients each year [2]. Most of these patients are treated using fixed orthodontic appliances (orthodontic brackets), which are used to correct a wide range of dental and skeletal malocclusions and to align teeth. These appliances are fixed to the teeth, forces being applied by the archwires or auxiliaries attached to them [1]. Such is usually performed during adolescence, when the
eruption of permanent teeth is complete but craniofacial growth is still progressing. This combines advantages in terms of tooth movement, correction of malocclusion and the maintenance of favorable facial growth [3].
The main objectives of orthodontic treatment are to achieve pleasant smile aesthetics with a stable occlusal relationship and healthy masticatory function [1].
The improvements brought by orthodontics to a patient’s facial and dental appearance can also have mental health benefits, as they increased the patient’s psychosocial well-being and sense of self-esteem and self-confidence [1,4]. As the ideal alignment of the teeth simplifies oral hygiene, it is also supposed to reduce dental caries and periodontal diseases.