If you want a straighter smile, you’re not alone! Millions of people around the world have committed to orthodontic treatments to fix their pearly whites. In fact, people have worked on correcting their teeth and bite issues all since ancient times. Unfortunately for those seeking orthodontic treatment in the past, options were limited to unrefined methods that were uncomfortable and even sometimes dangerous. Thankfully, orthodontics have evolved by leaps and bounds over the years, and nowadays it’s never been easier, safer, or more comfortable to improve your smile with modern treatments like Invisalign. Read on to learn more about the fascinating history of braces!
Ancient Origins of Orthodontic Treatment
The earliest means of orthodontic treatment was discovered in Egypt, on the teeth of 50,000-year-old mummies. These treatments involved placing metal bands against the teeth and tying them in place with cords of dried animal intestines. While grotesque, this mimics the fundamental methods modern braces use today.
The Greeks and Romans are the first people thought to try orthodontic measures on the living. There is evidence that they used wires placed on the back of the teeth and small appliances similar to mouthguards (both made of gold) to fix the spacing of teeth. The ancient Roman writer Aulus Cornelius Celsus even documented his attempts to straighten his teeth with regular pressure applied by his own hands!
The Birth of Early Braces in the 18th Century
Not many advancements in orthodontics were made until the 18th century (with the notable exception of the development of wax dental impressions in the 17th century). In the early 1700s, the Father of Dentistry Dr. Pierre Fauchard invented the first well-known piece of orthodontic technology called the bandeau. This metal, horseshoe-shaped device was designed to fit over the teeth and correct their alignment.
In 1757, Dr. Pierre Bourdet made the important discovery that the third molars (wisdom teeth) could be removed to prevent crowded teeth. Even today, wisdom teeth are often removed for this very reason.
The Braces Boom in the 19th Century
Orthodontic treatment began to advance quickly in the 19th century. Renowned dentists like Christophe-Francois Delabarre and E.J. Tucker began creating “wire cribs” that attached to the teeth in order to straighten them and correct jaw alignment. In the late 1800s, the Father of Orthodontics Dr. Edward Hartley Angle began to vastly improve upon centuries of crude orthodontic work and create more comfortable and effective braces with metal wires. Then, in 1893, Dr. Henry A. Baker invented a method of straightening teeth using a combination of metal wires and elastics, forming the beginning of modern braces as we know them today.
Innovation and Invisalign
While orthodontic treatment had come a tremendously long way over the years, metal braces were still not an ideal or comfortable solution for many patients looking for a better smile. That’s why inventors Zia Chishti and Kelsey Wirth created the Invisalign clear aligner system. Since their FDA approval in 1998, millions of patients have gotten the orthodontic treatment they need with this unique process, and it gets more popular every year!
Thanks to highly refined treatments like braces and Invisalign, it’s never been easier or safer to correct crooked teeth and bite problems. Talk to your orthodontist today to schedule your appointment and start your journey towards a straighter, healthier smile!
About the Author
Since 1988, Dr. Dennis Sherman of Milton Orthodontics has been providing high-quality and personalized orthodontic care for smiles of all ages. He is committed to staying current with the latest techniques and technologies, which he is able to do through his memberships in prestigious organizations such as the American Association of Orthodontics and the American Dental Association. From traditional braces to modern Invisalign clear aligners and everything in between, he can help you overcome whatever orthodontic issues you face. To learn more, he can be contacted online or at (617) 698-8883.