Collaboration between the general dentist and orthodontist: an essential partnership to ensure orthodontic success.

Orthodontic therapy can significantly improve a patient's quality of life in a number of ways. Benefits of orthodontic therapy include a beautiful smile, increased self-confidence, and better overall dental and periodontal health. Collaboration and communication between the general dental team and the orthodontic team are essential elements to ensuring successful outcomes for orthodontic patients. This partnership starts from the time of the initial referral and continues through the retention stage of treatment when all tooth movement is complete. This overview article describes keys to implementing and executing a team-oriented approach towards orthodontic treatment.