Orthodontia—Safe and sane

Emphasis should be placed on the following points:

First, orthodontia should be based upon, a thorough knowledge of the principles of biology together with a good working knowledge of mechanics.

Second, all diagnoses and prognoses should consider heredity, environment, natural growth and developmental processes, and individual variations.

Third, each patient is a case unto itself and, generally speaking, active orthodontic treatment should not be started too early in life.

Fourth, most adult cases and habit cases can be successfully treated provided the orthodontist has the cooperation of the patient.

Fifth, in some cleft palate cases orthodontic treatment can be a great adjunct in preparing a better field for the oral and plastic surgeons.

Sixth, often orthodontic treatment is empirical, but that empiricism need not deter the profession from doing a great service to mankind if diagnosis is seasoned with good common sense.