Traditionally orthodontists have used the classification system developed by Edward H. Angle in 1900 to describe the malocclusion of an orthodontic patient. This classification is very limited with respect to the information it provides and should be replaced by a more detailed and inclusive description of a patient's malocclusion as well as the underlying biology. In this review article we propose a new technique that ensures all pertinent information gets considered and we suggest a systematic approach to a more differentiated orthodontic diagnosis. Our approach divides the diagnosis into clearly defined categories that bring together the clinical findings into a comprehensive diagnosis.