By Leonard J. Carapezza, DMD and Associate Clinical Professor at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine I have been in private pediatric practice in Wayland, MA for the past 50 years and teaching at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine since 1975. The epiphany into orthodontics began in 1972 when I was exposed to Dr. Lawrence F. Andrews’ writ-ings and the revolutionary straight wire appliance. Through Dr. Andrews, I was introduced to Dr. Walde-mar Brehm, one of the original users and teachers of the Andrews orthodontics system. Dr. Brehm became my mentor and second father. Our common interest was treating malocclusions early and allowing growth, development and the eruption process (serial guidance) to be involved in treatment. Together, Dr. Brehm and I lectured nationally and internationally (for multiple years) about early treatment Utility Arch Wire mechanics and the Andrews fully programed SWA. Early treatment became our passion. This passion has been maintained through teaching, clinical practice research and publishing. (Fig. 1) Science vs. Art Dr. Andrews has spent a lifetime attempting to objectify orthodontics. The long axis of the clinical crown (LACC) and its long axis point are the referents used in the discovery of the six keys to normal occlu-sion. Andrews states these referents are the only science today in orthodontics because they can be quantified and used in 90% of the North American population. Andrews believed to have discovered the other five referents that will objectify diagnosis and treatment planning for Oro-Facial harmony. The six keys to Oro-Facial harmony will allow orthodontics to become a 8 Spring 2021 JAOS
Journal of the American Orthodontic Society Spring 2021: Page 8
