Foundations of Orthodontics: Growth, Diagnosis, and Treatment Planning

Sound orthodontic treatment begins with an accurate understanding of craniofacial growth, structured diagnostic reasoning, and treatment planning that aligns biology with patient goals. This foundational course gives you that base. By the end of this course you will be able to describe the patterns of craniofacial growth across childhood and adolescence, classify common malocclusions using standard frameworks, interpret common diagnostic records, and articulate the principles behind orthodontic treatment planning. What you will learn: - The biology of craniofacial growth and dental development across age groups - The classification of malocclusions including Angle classification and skeletal patterns - Common cephalometric analyses and their interpretation - The role of dental models, photographs, and imaging in diagnosis - The principles of treatment goal setting including function, aesthetics, and stability - The role of timing in interceptive, comprehensive, and adult orthodontics - The principles of informed consent and shared decision-making in orthodontic treatment The course uses readings, growth pattern illustrations, case examples, and reflection questions. Each module ends with applied diagnostic exercises. This course is written for dental students, residents, general dentists strengthening orthodontic understanding, and orthodontic auxiliary professionals. By the end you will have replaced fragmented knowledge of orthodontics with a structured foundation in growth, diagnosis, and treatment planning that supports sound clinical reasoning.