Mentors: a continuum in orthodontic education

Each individual case presented here demonstrates the correction of a problem in one particular dimension, although problems in other dimensions were also present. Sagittal (depth or anteroposterior) problems as seen in a Class II, malocclusion, vertical (height) problems as exhibited by a skeletal and dental openbite, and transverse problems as exhibited by a skeletal and dental posterior crossbite are presented. Time, the critical fourth dimension, is employed to make corrections to apply the growth potential of the individual patient to aid in the correction of the skeletal and dental deformity by orthopedic-orthodontic mechanotherapy. The importance of the biologic age in orthodontics is realized when considering the value, contribution and utilization of growth, and this has been of utmost importance in the treatment of the cases presented here. Most important to the Author is the value of mentors in the overall advancement of our specialty and the quality of care that it provides. They have provided the education and training necessary to make the methods of diagnosis and treatment for these patients attainable. The treatments applied to these patients result directly from the practical application of theoretical information, associating biological concepts with mechanical means. It is not the intention here to provide a detailed evaluation of the skeletal or dental changes, or the relative contributions of growth or treatment mechanics employed. Rather, this is an effort to demonstrate the correlation of biologic principles with mechanical appliance therapy, and the many pieces of concepts and information that must be drawn on in the resolution of a specific problem. Above all, this is an expression of appreciation to the many mentors who have guided, and are currently guiding this Author directly and indirectly. Further, while one author can speak in specific terms only from direct personal experience in a matter such as this, a broader appreciation is also expressed to the countless mentors, past and present, who have contributed so much to the lives of individual orthodontists and their patients, and to the overall advancement of our specialty.