Orthodontics at the turn of the century. A discussion of some relevant aspects.

Some changing paradigms, that might influence orthodontics in the future, are being discussed: economic problems related to our welfare systems; development of the media societies; concepts of normality; future changes as regards the type of treatment records; evaluation of treatment outcome; "exaggerated orthodontics?"; orthodontics and facial aesthetics; Newtonian paradigms and scientific revolution; the growth of knowledge; phenomenology; tacit knowledge; decision making.