The World Federation of Orthodontists (WFO) has launched two critical task forces to address pressing issues within the specialty: Guidelines for Orthodontic Websites and the Environmental Footprints of Orthodontics. These initiatives reflect the WFO’s commitment to enhancing the profession’s ethical, informational, and environmental standards.
Developing Guidelines for Orthodontic Websites
A new task force, led by Dr. Bryce Lee and Dr. Valmy Kulbersh, with Dr. Narayan Gandedkar serving as secretary, is focused on creating comprehensive guidelines for online orthodontic content. The initiative aims to assist organizations, practices, and academic programs in navigating challenges related to online health information, advertising ethics, and patient data privacy.
“Our task force goal is to develop guidelines for the specialty that will help with planning online content that truly helps consumers make informed decisions,” said Dr. Lee.
The proposed document, titled Guidelines for Orthodontics and Health Information Sites on the Internet, will serve as a resource to:
- Ensure high-quality, reliable orthodontic information.
- Equip users with tools to judge content reliability.
- Maintain visitor privacy and confidentiality.
- Promote ethical advertising and sponsorship practices.
This initiative builds upon existing WFO principles for online content and seeks to extend their applicability globally. The task force includes a diverse group of members from various countries, including advisors like past WFO president Dr. Allan Thom and ex-officio members such as Dr. Nikhillesh R. Vaiid (WFO president) and Dr. Letizia Perillo (president-elect).
Addressing Environmental Footprints in Orthodontics
The Task Force on Environmental Footprints of Orthodontics, chaired by Dr. Theodore Eliades, is addressing the environmental challenges posed by orthodontic practices. With a white paper expected by March 2024, this group aims to develop sustainable guidelines for the profession, promoting eco-friendly practices in daily orthodontic operations.
The task force’s objectives include:
- Evaluating the global environmental impact of orthodontics.
- Identifying both direct and indirect environmental effects.
- Creating consensus guidelines for sustainable chairside practices, material use, and waste disposal.
“By focusing on the evaluation of environmental impacts and the development of sustainable practices, the task force aims to promote a more responsible approach to orthodontics,” said Dr. Perillo.
Members of the task force represent a global perspective, with experts from countries such as the United States, Greece, and Singapore. The white paper will be submitted to the Journal of the World Federation of Orthodontists (JWFO), highlighting practical solutions for reducing orthodontics’ environmental footprint.
A Forward-Thinking Approach
These two task forces demonstrate the WFO’s proactive stance on tackling modern challenges in orthodontics. From ensuring trustworthy online information to integrating sustainable practices, these initiatives aim to strengthen the specialty’s ethical and environmental standards.
Through collaborative efforts, the WFO is not only addressing immediate concerns but also laying the groundwork for a more sustainable and informed future for orthodontics worldwide.
