Abstract:
A historical review of the development of orthodontics is given. The
scope, purpose and necessity of the discipline is outlined, including its
possible role as a community service. The prevalence of malocclusion in
South Africa is reported from original research, and the under- and
postgraduate teaching programme is summarised. The basic principles of
orthodontic treatment and the foremost techniques are illustrated, as
well as the latest developments. A plea is made for co-operation between
the associated disciplines, the establishment of a multidisciplinary team
for spirt palate and lip cases, inter-university liaison, and the necessary
research on, preparation for and promotion of the extension of orthodontic
services to all parts of the population.
