RT Journal T1 PRactical orthodontics JF Journal of the American Medical Association JO Journal of the American Medical Association YR 1949 FD May 14 VO 140 IS 2 SP 258 OP 258 DO 10.1001/jama.1949.02900370126033 UL http://dx.doi.org/10.1001/jama.1949.02900370126033 AB There is much valuable fundamental material covered by the seventh edition of this book. It contains a chapter on the field of orthodontics as a dental specialty, including definitions, objectives and benefits of this science. There is an inclusive and pertinent history on the background and progress of modern orthodontics. The volume continues with lengthy discussions on etiology, diagnosis, classification and the mechanical methods of treatment and retention of malocclusions of the teeth. A parallel is drawn between medical and orthodontic diagnosis. The former is generally concerned with a pathologic condition and is determined symptomatically or by the exclusion of other diseases. Orthodontics for the most part does not involve a pathologic condition, but presents a problem in diagnosis concerned with growth and development (or lack of) of the body as a whole, and the teeth, jaws and face in particular. In its own field each has the same importance