Abstract Distraction Osteogenesis is a novel method of new bone formation that has reached various advances in recent years with its advantages of minimum invasiveness and formation of both bone and soft tissue. Though initially used in long bones, currently distraction osteogenesis is used widely in dentistry for correction of alveolar distraction, maxillo-mandibular deformities, cleft palate treatment and accelerated canine retraction. This review article gives an overview of distraction osteogenesis.