May’s Tip

1. Every orthodontic case begins with full records (no exceptions). (Photographs, Lateral Head Film, Panorex X-Ray film, Diagnostic Models, Patient examination and Patient History are a must.)
2. From these records (facts at one point in time) a diagnosis and treatment plan is developed. All records are important in developing the diagnosis and treatment plan for each patient.
3.  Information from the Lateral Head Film is critical to the diagnosis and treatment plan.
4. From the Lateral Head Film we can determine the mandibular growth direction as it relates to the rest of the face and to our treatment plan. The mandibular growth direction  will either be in a clockwise, neutral or counterclockwise direction or a combination thereof as these growth directions may overlap slightly. The mandibular growth direction is critical to the diagnosis as it will dictate anterior bracket position and molar band positions and the finished occlusion for the case.

5. From that diagnosis the orthodontic treatment and its endpoint can be visualized.
6. Once the diagnosis is determined and the endpoint for that patient’s treatment is visualized a treatment plan can be developed.
7. Once the treatment plan is developed the treatment modalities and their sequence for that patient’s treatment can also be outlined.
8. Refer to my article in the March 2026 JCO Journal volume 36/4/winter2025-2026 for orthodontic treatment sequence depending upon the dental malady.
9. The end result of treatment should be proper anterior dental occlusion (a Class I molar and a Class I cuspid relationship with a shallow cuspid rise and no cuspal interferences in centric closure or excursive movements.
10. Following a direct orderly treatment plan will result in a patient with pleasing facial esthetics and a proper functioning occlusion without round tripping and a healthy TMJ.

Milton E. Pedrazzi DDS