There are a number of controversies that surround orthodontics and orthodontic treatment and this article aims to discuss the current thinking and evidence base. The topics that will be discussed in turn are:Short term orthodontics – why isn’t all treatment short term?Appliances - What’s in a name?Can modern appliances make the teeth move faster?Can we make the jaws grow?Extraction vs. non-extraction treatment – does it affect the outcome?Canine guidance- has it gone to the dogs?Lower incisor position – so what?TMD and orthodontics – cause or cure
