FOCA orthodontic diagnosis method: Facial, occlusal, cephalometric, and anamnesis analysis – Description of the method and instruments applied

Diagnosis is considered the determining step for success or failure in orthodontic treatment and must be performed considering heredity, individual characteristics, and the patient’s environment, both for corrective and interceptive orthodontics. To establish a sequence and associate relevant information that defines a treatment plan, the facial, occlusal, cephalometric, and anamnesis (FOCA) diagnostic method was created. This method is actively used by more than 3000 dentists and its instruments have already been shared with more than 110,000 dentists in Brazil and Latin America, through online events. This article aims to describe the methodology and instruments created for its application. The 13-step facial analysis guide, occlusal analysis in the transverse, vertical, and sagittal directions, as well as inter and intra-arch analysis, are described in this work. The anamnesis guide instrument highlights heredity, medical history, menarche, habits, trauma, tooth loss, breathing, speech changes, snoring, bruxism, and TMJ function deviations. The sequence of what to do with the information obtained through facial and occlusal analysis is described in this work: The elaboration of therapeutic goals, list of problems, alternative approaches, and final treatment sequence. The FOCA diagnostic method guarantees a disciplined approach to diagnosis and treatment planning. The systematization of information, as well as the implementation of technology in the diagnostic steps, justifies treatment decisions and leads the professional to more complete and assertive treatment plans.