Teeth straightening has been dated all the way back to ancient Egypt, where animal intestines were wrapped around the teeth, needless to say, technology has come a long way since then. Orthodontic work has made several large strides throughout the last four centuries and, with the assistance of present technology, has gone farther than ever imagined.
How Braces Started
An interesting orthodontic fact is how braces first got started. In 1720, the first braces were composed of a flat piece of metal that covered the teeth and were connected to the teeth using several pieces of thread. The threads were wrapped around each tooth while the metal forced the teeth to straighten. Today we use that same idea, but combine it with 21st century technology.
When It All Began to Grow
For years, braces and metal lived hand in hand. Small metal brackets were applied to each tooth and were straightened using arch wire. While this method proved to be effective, it lacked answers to problems such as appearance and comfort.
How Far Things Have Come
Today, Invisalign is the new and improved braces. Gone are the years of flat metal and string, kids screaming out “brace face” and uncomfortable sores inside the mouth. Invisalign uses state of the art technology to create a thin yet durable plastic substance that is used to make frames for the teeth. The material is comfortable, easy to use and practically invisible. Each frame causes the teeth to straighten, but rather than painful tightening every couple of weeks, a patient simply receives a new frame in order to continue the process.
Our Practice
We at Beecroft Orthodontics offer Invisalign: Invisalign King George and Invisalign Teen Stafford treatments. Both Invisalign and Invisalign Teen are available at every location as well as a variety of other orthodontic procedures.
Contact us today to get more information on the orthodontic treatments that will help you smile confidently.
Beecroft Orthodontics, 10472 Georgetown Dr. Fredericksburg, Virginia
Phone: 540-898-2200
Orthodontic Fact #8: The first braces were of a piece of flat metal in 1720. This was connected to the patient’s teeth by using several pieces of thread.