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Orthodontics

Diagnosis, cephalometric analysis, space analysis, problem lists, biomechanics, and appliance design — structured for OSCE, viva, and board exams.

What examiners focus on

  • Cephalometric landmarks, planes, angles, and their clinical meaning
  • Space analysis — mixed dentition analysis, crowding vs spacing
  • Problem list construction — skeletal, dental, soft tissue, and functional
  • Angle's classification and incisor classification
  • Treatment planning rationale — extraction vs non-extraction, timing of treatment
  • Biomechanics basics — force systems, anchorage, and tooth movement types
  • Removable and functional appliance design and indications

5 tips for orthodontics exams

  1. Ceph tracing questions test whether you can interpret — not just identify. Always state what the angle means clinically.
  2. Problem lists must be organized: skeletal → dental → soft tissue → functional. Random lists lose marks.
  3. Space analysis vivas expect you to show the calculation, not just the answer — walk through the method.
  4. For treatment planning, always justify your extraction decision with the problem list — don't just state "extract 4s."
  5. Know 3–4 functional appliances by name, mechanism, and indication — examiners love comparing Twin Block vs Herbst.