The Global Legacy of the WFO

The Angle School of Orthodontia

The roots of orthodontics trace back to Dr. Edward H. Angle, who founded the Angle School of Orthodontia in St. Louis, Missouri in 1899, with its first session in 1900. This pivotal moment is often considered the official birth of orthodontics as a recognized dental specialty. Angle’s teachings and innovations laid the groundwork for future advancements, shaping the standards of orthodontic care.

The 1st International Orthodontic Congress

The first major step toward global cooperation in orthodontics took place with the 1st International Orthodontic Congress (IOC), held from August 16–20 in New York City. Spearheaded by Dr. William C. Fisher, the event was the first worldwide congress organized by a dental specialty. Approximately 600 specialists from 15 orthodontic societies across the United States and Europe attended. The event was a resounding success, marking the beginning of international collaboration in orthodontics.

The 2nd International Orthodontic Congress

The 2nd IOC was held in London, organized by Dr. J.H. Badcock. With representatives from 23 countries, this congress cemented the IOC as a vital platform for orthodontic advancement. The congress not only focused on scientific deliberations but also on social events, including a golf tournament in Berkshire, showcasing the spirit of fellowship within the orthodontic community.

The Return of the IOC

After a 42-year hiatus due to world events, the 3rd IOC took place in London. Dr. William J. Tulley served as President, with Dr. B.F. (Tod) Dewel as Vice-President. Sponsored by the European Orthodontic Society (EOS) and the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), this event was the first time the concept of a global orthodontic organization was formally discussed. The need for an international federation to unite orthodontists and promote the highest standards of care began to take shape.

Worldwide Organization Proposed

At the board meeting for the Midwestern Society of Orthodontists, a constituent of the AAO, Dr. John Byrne proposed the formation of a worldwide organization. This idea was enthusiastically supported, leading to a formal request for the 4th IOC to be held alongside the AAO’s annual meeting in San Francisco in 1995.

May 15, 1995: A New Dawn for Global Orthodontics

At the 4th International Orthodontic Congress in San Francisco, the World Federation of Orthodontists (WFO) was officially born. 69 organizations from 62 countries signed the charter, establishing a global orthodontic federation with a mission to unite the world of orthodontics under one umbrella organization. The historic charter-signing ceremony took place at the Herbst Theatre, the same location where the United Nations Charter had been signed decades earlier.

Dr. William H. DeKock served as the first president of the WFO, and Dr. Lee W. Graber was named vice president. The WFO headquarters was established in St. Louis, Missouri, in collaboration with the AAO, which provided critical financial and organizational support during its formative years.

The 5th IOC

The 5th IOC was held in Chicago in partnership with the AAO. This congress attracted thousands of orthodontic professionals and helped further establish the WFO as a leader in global orthodontic collaboration.

The 6th IOC

The 6th IOC took place in Paris, organized with French orthodontic societies. This congress was notable for its focus on scientific advancement and the growing importance of digital technologies in orthodontics.

The 7th IOC

The 7th IOC was hosted in Sydney, with the Australian Society of Orthodontists as a key organizer. The event continued the tradition of combining scientific innovation with cultural exchange.

Young Minds & Symbiotic Relationships

The WFO recognized the importance of nurturing future leaders in orthodontics by implementing a scholarship program at the 8th IOC in London. These scholarships provide financial assistance to student members from economically challenged regions, enabling them to pursue advanced education and contribute to the future of the profession.

The WFO also places a strong emphasis on symbiotic relationships with its affiliated organizations. By fostering these close connections, the WFO helps create a global network of support and shared knowledge.

WFO’s 25th Anniversary

The COVID-19 pandemic posed unprecedented challenges, but the WFO responded by transitioning its activities to digital platforms. The 9th IOC, originally scheduled to be held in Yokohama, Japan, became the first virtual congress in WFO history. This event underscored the WFO’s resilience and its commitment to maintaining global connections in a rapidly changing world.

Strengthening Our Affiliates

The WFO has launched multiple initiatives to strengthen its affiliate organizations and the specialty of orthodontics, including providing regional recognition of outstanding orthodontic contributors, updating postgraduate education guidelines, developing an international directory of orthodontic educators, enhancing orthodontic certifying boards, developing an awards program to enhance the visibility of specialty orthodontics while also supporting World Orthodontic Health day, increasing the recognition of the Journal of the World Federation of Orthodontists, providing monthly webinars, and planning for the 12th IOC in Rio de Janeiro.