The 4,000 year history of braces and what you may mot know have you ever wondered about the history of braces? How did we develop the various techniques we see today in this age of technological advancement? Many people might wonder if there were methods to straighten teeth in the past. If so, how did they do it? Today, we’ll explore the 4,000-year history of braces and share some facts you might not know.
The History of Braces
Did you know that there’s important evidence showing ancient humans tried to straighten teeth? The first civilization discovered to do this was the Egyptians, about 4,000 years ago. Mummies were found with metal wrapped around their teeth in an attempt to align them. These discoveries can be divided into two types:
1. Dental Bridges
This method filled gaps between missing teeth by adding another tooth, which could be the person’s own or someone else’s. Then, gold or silver wire was used to create a bridge-like structure.
2. Metal Bars to Support Teeth
In this method, leather strips made from horse or sheep intestines were wrapped around the teeth to align them.
You might be wondering if humans really did these scary-sounding things. It’s important to note that this evidence was found on mummies or deceased individuals. Ancient Egyptians believed in reincarnation in the same body, so they tried to preserve mummies and make the body as perfect as possible.
Evidence of tooth alignment was also found in the Etruscan civilization, which existed before the Romans. They used gold mouthguards to cover the teeth of deceased women to maintain facial structure. However, the first civilization to practice braces on living people for aesthetic purposes was the Roman civilization. They used small gold wires called “ligature wires” to wrap around teeth and move them into the desired position.
Modern Braces in the 18th-19th Centuries
As modern medicine began to flourish in the Western world, humans started to seriously study medical treatments. This led to the discovery of orthodontics or braes as a separate field from general dentistry. In 1728, Dr. Pierre Fauchard wrote a book called “The Surgeon Dentist,” which included a chapter about a horseshoe-shaped metal device worn in the mouth.
Braces In 1819
Dentist Christophe Francois Delabarre invented the “Wire Crib.” This device used thread or small pieces of wood inserted between teeth, followed by the Wire Crib to gradually move teeth into the desired position.
Braces In 1841
The term “Orthodontia” was established. In 1843, Edward Maynard began using rubber in braces. In 1850, E.J. Tucker developed a method using rubber bands to move individual teeth with minimal pain.
Braces In the 1970s
Brackets were invented for use in orthodontics. Since then, brackets have been further developed, and special adhesives for orthodontic use have been created.
Braces In 1997
A new orthodontic innovation emerged: clear aligners. Made from plastic materials and worn over the teeth, this invention came from Align Technology, inspired by retainers used after traditional braces.
Current Braces Methods
Today, there are two main types of braces or orthodontic treatments: fixed appliances attached to the teeth and removable appliances. The four most popular forms of orthodontics are:
- Metal Braces
- Ceramic Braces
- Damon Braces
- Invisalign
(Read more: Brace and what you need to know before getting them)
Conclusion
Braces has a long history of treating and aligning teeth. It’s no surprise that it’s a popular and safe treatment method, as humans have continuously invented and developed techniques to make orthodontics less painful and safer. If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, you can choose the method that suits you best or consult with an orthodontist to find the most appropriate and effective treatment for your needs.
If you’re looking for an dental clinic Pattaya for braces, you can visit Dental Design Center. We are a full-service dental clinic in Pattaya, Thailand, including braces. Our dentist team uses modern, internationally-standardized equipment. For more information, you can contact us at (038)111-844, (038)111-845, (038)488-353 or visit our clinic’s website.