Early Life and Education - Kurz was born in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, Canada. - He attended the University of Saskatchewan for college. - Kurz obtained his dental degree from McGill University in Montreal. - He then attended the orthodontic program at Columbia University College of Dental Medicine in New York. - After completing his education, Kurz established his private practice in Westwood, Los Angeles, California.

Invention of Lingual Braces - Kurz invented lingual braces to address the dilemma of patients wanting orthodontic care without showing braces. - The first generation of lingual brackets was launched in 1976. - The first Kurz Lingual Appliance was manufactured by Orthodontic company Ormcro. - The initial lingual brackets had a larger profile. - The slot size for the first bracket was 0.018 inches.

Contributions and Achievements - Kurz published a textbook called 'Contemporary Lingual Orthodontics.' - He was the founding president of the American Lingual Orthodontic Association. - Kurz's work with celebrities and TV personalities brought attention to lingual braces. - He made significant advancements in the field of lingual orthodontics. - Kurz's invention of lingual braces revolutionised the orthodontic industry.

Legacy - Kurz's invention of lingual braces continues to be widely used in orthodontic treatment. - His work paved the way for further advancements in invisible orthodontics. - Kurz's textbook, 'Contemporary Lingual Orthodontics,' remains a valuable resource in the field. - The American Lingual Orthodontic Association, which Kurz founded, continues to promote lingual orthodontics. - Kurz's contributions have had a lasting impact on the field of orthodontics.

References - Los Angeles Times published an obituary for Dr. Craven Kurz, highlighting his invention of invisible braces. - People.com featured an article praising Kurz's invention of invisible braces. - ArchWired provided a brief history of orthodontic braces, mentioning Kurz's contribution. - Specialty Appliances listed Kurz's textbook, 'Contemporary Lingual Orthodontics,' as a reference. - Basavaraj Subhashchandra Phulari's book, 'History of Orthodontics,' mentioned Kurz's contributions.