Somewhere in the past I recall having seen a photograph of an elderly gentleman working by candle-light; and the caption below the photograph was, "I didn't think, I measured."

It is hazardous for man to depend on his logic regarding biological principles before he measures. Human logic is often in error pertaining to the growth of the jaws. Since the advent of cephalometrics we have no excuse for such errors. Before the cephalometric radiogram we could be excused for errors in judgment regarding craniofacial growth. Many examples of such errors, diametrically opposite to the facts, can be pointed out in the literature of the past.

Precedence can be cited for investigators in our past who knew the value of measuring, first. Dr, John Hunter, in England, studied the growth of the jaws in animals by using metal implants. Dr. Edward Angle measured teeth and dental arches to establish his classification of malocclusion. Dr. Milo Hellman measured directly on the face and established same correct concepts. Dr. Hayes Nance measured tooth size and dental arch size and is quoted today for his correct concepts. Dr. Wayne Bolton measured relative tooth size and arch size in relation to torque and established some very important concepts.

In Article Number One of the Schudy Chronicles on the Internet, we pointed out the migration of the mandibular third molar tooth bud and questioned its value as a stable landmark. Based on our findings we estimated that in 30% to 40% of the population the mandibular third molar tooth bud migrates. To establish this fact we measured a random sample of ninety-five individuals ages 6 to 16.

In response to this discussion we received e-mail questioning the concept that the lower third molar tooth bud migrates downward. This individual states, "Third molars are not yo-yos." Here is an example of someone who is using his logic when all he needs to do is measure.

Through a period of thirty-seven years my published articles have been completely objective -- always illustrating any principle or concept which was recommended. I have never discussed generalities. "I didn't think, I measured."

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