Innovations: Begg orthodontic technique

During the 1950s Adelaide orthodontist Percy Raymond Begg pioneered a new technique to correct tooth and jaw malformations. Previously, orthodontic work had been carried out with the use of precious metals such as gold and platinum and using strong forces to pull the teeth and jaw into place, often requiring the use of headgear. Begg collaborated with Victorian metallurgist Arthur Wilcock to develop wire using lighter metal that could be used to exert force more effectively on the teeth or jaw. This reduced the need for uncomfortable and unattractive headgear and made orthodontic work more affordable. The Begg technique revolutionised the way orthodontics was practiced around the world.