What is the primary goal of anchorage in orthodontics?

The primary goal of anchorage in orthodontics is to control unwanted tooth movement. Anchorage refers to the method by which stability is provided during tooth movement, ensuring that certain teeth remain stationary while others are moved into desired positions.

In orthodontic treatment, especially in cases that require the movement of multiple teeth, it is essential to prevent the undesirable migration of anchorage teeth. For instance, when moving a molar forward to correct a dental arch discrepancy, the anterior teeth must be prevented from shifting back, which could occur due to the forces applied to the molars.

Effective anchorage can be achieved using various means, such as utilizing bands, brackets, or other orthodontic appliances. By understanding the dynamics of anchorage, orthodontists can apply the right amount of force to achieve optimal tooth positioning while maintaining the integrity of the rest of the dental arch.

While the other options might be implications of effective orthodontic treatment, they do not directly relate to the specific function of anchorage in controlling and directing tooth movement.