Pulsus a mortuus equus

In a climate of on-line opinion blogs, internet puffery, proprietary advocacy, persuasive testimonials, distain for evidence, and the patient’s confusion of second or third opinion referrals, resistance seems futile for embracing most any trend in orthodontics. No matter the propriety, utility, or evidence basis, it seems: anything goes. In olden days, a glimpse of expansion was looked on as something not in fashion. Today, not so much. Early or late timing, arches wider or maintained, forces heavy or light, extracted or expanded, and passive or active, are all perpetually debated. As Cole Porter wrote, “I know that I am bound to answer, when you propose.” But, there is really only one question of merit to answer when we get down to the brass tacks of arch length in orthodontia: more bone or less teeth. Which?