The smile was the first goal for early "regulators," it was occlusion that gave orthodontics its scientific foundation. Now today, dentists and patients alike realize that orthodontic treatment may be a necessity. Correcting misaligned teeth can often prevent a lifetime of periodontal problems and severe tooth wear, and even premature tooth loss! Today, self-ligating brackets and lingual systems are being used. The latest technique is to use computer imaging to assure a better fit. If a patient has a moderate-to-severe malocclusion, bracing is still the best choice for patients and orthodontists.