[Pont's index--a discussion].

When comparing orthodontic textbooks from various countries Pont's Index appears to have played a relatively important role in Germany. In the USA a marked shift in treatment concept came up during the forties, in that the maintaining of pre-treatment dental arch form--specifically in the lower jaw--now was considered to be important for reasons of stability. Later research findings have supported this concept. In view of present knowledge, strong doubts are expressed regarding the justification for the use of Pont's Index in clinical practice, in teaching as well as in communication with the Health Insurance.