Ortodonsie - 'n oorsig en waardebepaling

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.