History of Braces
February 25, 2019
Contrary to popular opinion, orthodontic treatment has been around since the ancient Greek and Etruscan civilizations! Misaligned teeth have been causing problems for centuries, but modern orthodontic treatment makes getting a straighter smile easier than ever before. Today, our team at Peak Dentistry has put together the following history of braces to help our patients learn about the evolution of those mysterious metal brackets and wires.
Ancient Beginnings
In some ancient societies, like the Etruscans mentioned earlier, it was custom to use rudimentary braces made from catgut (an intestinal fiber) to straighten the teeth of the dead. Fast forward a few thousand years to Medieval times: unfortunately for the lords and ladies of the era, orthodontic treatment isn’t much more advanced than the occasional tooth extraction performed to treat overcrowding.
Meet Pierre Fauchard, the French Father of Orthodontics
Pierre Fauchard, a French orthodontist, invented a device called a “blandeau” that he used to expand the palate in the 18th century. This encouraged another French dentist to invent new methods of treating overcrowding issues by extracting teeth.
Modernization
In the 19th century, orthodontics slowly began to resemble the tools and techniques our team uses today. Dentists used tools like gum elastics, rubber tubing, and wire cribs to help adjust alignments. In the late 19th century, Edward Angle founded the first college of orthodontics and the first orthodontic journal.
The Midas Touch?
Believe it or not, up until the 1950s the metal bands used in braces were made out of gold! Orthodontists later switched to stainless steel and invented the predecessor of our modern version in the 1970s.
Modern Orthodontics & You
Now more than ever, orthodontic treatments are designed with the comfort and convenience of the patient in mind. To learn more about the variety of orthodontic treatments we offer or to schedule your next visit to our office, contact us today!
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I don’t normally take the time to write reviews, but Peak Dentistry deserves recognition. My husband and I have been so fortunate to be a part of this practice for 10 years driving 2-1/2 hours each way to make our appointments. Drs. Joe and Gabrielle Ramellini, as well as their staff, have provided a level of dental care that reflects their expertise in the work they do that sets them apart as very unique and special. We highly recommend Peak Dentistry to anyone who is interested in quality care you can trust with a personal touch.
Absolutely love the people in this office. Very professional.
New patient visit. Office was beautiful, the treatment was 1st rate in every sense, and I was so impressed with all the latest technology.
The entire staff at Peak Dentistry is amazing, but I would like to highlight my hygienist, Missy, in particular. I went in for a regular teeth cleaning and didn't necessarily expect to be "wowed" but Missy took such care and attention to detail that I walked out of there with the pearliest whites I have ever had. Thank you for giving me such a beautiful white smile, Missy!