Only the crown?
Root position also matters.
← All explanationsOrthodontic torque
What does torque mean in orthodontics?
In orthodontics, torque refers to control of tooth inclination towards the lip, cheek or tongue. The position of the root within the surrounding bone is particularly relevant. A straight-looking crown alone does not show the whole tooth’s position in three dimensions.
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Crown and root belong together
The visible part of a tooth does not fully reveal its root position. Planning considers the crown, root and surrounding tissues together; the crown and root remain one rigid unit.
Forces control inclination
A suitable force system can create a moment. In fixed appliances, the archwire and bracket are among the relevant components.
Anatomy guides planning
Root position, bone and supporting tissues must be considered. A schematic movement does not predict an individual treatment course.
Read the full explanation
Crown and root belong together
The visible part of a tooth does not fully reveal its root position. Planning considers the crown, root and surrounding tissues together; the crown and root remain one rigid unit.
Forces control inclination
A suitable force system can create a moment. In fixed appliances, the archwire and bracket are among the relevant components.
Anatomy guides planning
Root position, bone and supporting tissues must be considered. A schematic movement does not predict an individual treatment course.
Notes on the teaching images
- Fictional teaching illustration, not a patient case or treatment result.
At a glance
Always the same amount?
Planning depends on the findings.
Exactly predictable from a diagram?
No; the diagram explains a principle.
Knowledge in motion
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Silent educational film with German on-screen text and simplified teaching images. Not a patient case or a promised treatment outcome. The full English explanation is available as text.
Often confused
Torque and rotation
Torque mainly concerns inclination towards the lip or tongue. Rotation describes turning around the tooth’s long axis. Both can be involved in treatment.
Quick answers
Is torque simply pressure on a tooth?
The term concerns a moment or control of inclination. A single force may also translate or tip a tooth; the complete force system matters.
Can torque be assessed from a smile?
Not reliably. The visible crown does not fully reveal root position. Examination determines whether additional diagnostic records are needed.
Does more torque mean a better result?
No. The planned amount must suit the tooth, bone and bite. A larger movement is not a general measure of quality.
At the practice
For the appointment
You can bring this question to your appointment:
What tooth inclination is appropriate in my case, and how is root position considered?
An examination can clarify the finding and any need for referral.
Arrange an assessmentAppointment selection at DoctolibLearning layer for training & practiceUnderstand terminology and deepen knowledge
- Moment
- The turning effect of a force system about an axis.
- Couple
- Two equal, opposite and parallel forces with different lines of action.
Make the distinction
Torque mainly concerns inclination towards the lip or tongue. Rotation describes turning around the tooth’s long axis. Both can be involved in treatment.
Sources and context
Editorial research: . General information, not an individual diagnosis or treatment recommendation. Teaching illustrations are simplified and do not depict a patient case.