The present, past and future of orthodontic research

The objective of this paper is to evaluate past and present research efforts, and provide directions for future orthodontic research initiatives. Bibliometric indices show that the highest quality and most impactful research is currently being conducted in the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, Brazil and Italy. While the quality of orthodontic research has improved substantially over time, more and higher quality randomized controlled trials need to be conducted. Research efforts must be devoted toward developing evidence-based standards of care, which are necessary to protect the orthodontic profession from incursions by charlatans and outside entities. Future research in the areas of genetics, technology, artificial intelligence and craniofacial orthopedics offer great opportunities to advance the profession, individualize treatments and make them more effective and efficient.