We can think of the myriad of metaphors for what we do as orthodontists. For instance, William Clark in his book on Twin Blocks compares orthodontic treatment with a chess match. Kevin O’Brien in his recent online lecture compared the treatment with a journey. Personally, I see more parallels with something of verbal nature…Consider a language. If the entire orthodontic profession – with its science, treatment modalities and history – is a language, then each clinical case is an essay, a short story, or even a novel if the treatment is complicated and requires several phases. To get it done right you have to master the language. With its complex syntax and grammar. And as with any language, you can’t just wing it. You have to study, practice, make mistakes… and do this over and over again.

But those who have polished their language skills become true artists. In their works you see style, rhythm and genuine beauty. That is the outcome of mastering the orthodontic grammar.

I’ve recently renamed this blog and my YouTube channel to Orthodontic Grammar (I also spent a night drawing the logotype). I will continue to write and talk about what I consider clinically relevant and meaningful. I do it primarily because of two reasons. The first one is very selfish: I think that by sharing the information you are the one who learn the most. The second reason is slightly less selfish: I just enjoy interactions with colleagues I frequently have because of my online activities. All in all, my own orthodontic grammar is gradually enhancing because of what I do. There is a chance that you will also benefit from this…