Evolution of Orthodontic Bracket Systems

The field of Orthodontics has developed rapidly in the Post Angle Era. Edward Angle's seminal contributions to the field of Orthodontics, especially in the introduction and propogation of various appliance systems will be forever remembered. His development of the Edgewise bracket was indirectly responsible for popularising the speciality of Orthodontics and putting it at the forefront of Dentistry. This book is a small attempt to systematically describe the evolution of Orthodontic bracket systems from the Pre Angle era till development of lingual brackets, self ligation brackets and customised bracket systems. It is difficult to imagine that a period existed before the invention of orthodontic brackets. It is neccessary for clinicians and students of Orthodontics to know the historical basis of development of orthodontic bracket systems in order to become better practitioners of this wonderful speciality of dentistry. Bracket developments have come a long way since the use of catgut cord for aligning teeth.After 3000 years' of advancements, one would think that there would be no scope for further developments. History, however has proven otherwise.