Orthodontics in 3 millennia. Chapter 11: The golden age of orthodontics

For orthodontists, the post-World War II era was characterized by the introduction of fluoridation, sit-down dentistry, and an upswing in extractions. Postwar prosperity, the baby boom, and increased enlightenment of parents contributed to what was later called the “golden age of orthodontics.” The subsequent clamor for more orthodontists led to a proliferation of graduate departments and inauguration of the AAO Preceptorship Program. There was also an increase in mixed-dentition treatment, requiring improved methods of analyzing arch lengths.