October is National Orthodontic Health Month! To celebrate, let’s go back in time and learn a little bit about the history of orthodontics.
Earliest Braces?
It appears that the desire for a gorgeous, straightened smile isn’t just a modern-day phenomenon. Archaeologists have unearthed mummies with crudely constructed metal bands around their teeth! In the ancient times, catgut (a thin, strong cord made from sheep or goat intestines) was used instead of wire to close gaps. It also appears that around 500 B.C. the Greek physician Hippocrates, and philosopher Aristotle, both considered many methods for improving dental conditions, including teeth straightening.
The Next Phase In Orthodontics
What we now think of as “braces” go back as far as 1728. French dentist Pierre Fauchard published a book called “The Surgeon Dentist” which contained a chapter about straightening teeth. Dr. Fauchard was given the designation of having invented modern braces using pieces of thread to connect flat metal strips inside patients’ mouths.
Modern Orthodontic Brackets
In 1915 Edward Angle invented modern orthodontic brackets. These were fixed to small bands worn around each tooth. Dr. Angle improved on his invention in 1928 by creating a bracket that could be affixed directly to a tooth.
Constantly Improving
Your health, comfort, and the effectiveness of our orthodontic care are always our #1 concern. We continually update what we do to provide our valued patients with the very best orthodontic care.
Thanks for the trust you place in us. And if an extended family member or friend is considering orthodontic treatment, thanks in advance for your kind referral.
We hope you’ve found these facts fun and interesting! Thanks for visiting our blog!
