Orthodontic Fact #9: Dental Wires Developed by NASA

Most children are probably more interested in astronauts and space than getting braces. What children aren't aware of is the fact that rockets and orthodontics share a connection with the material used for some dental braces and was developed by NASA. Parents can rely on quality of wires used in dental braces because it is strong enough to be transported in space.

Out Of This WorldOrthodontic Fact

Researchers were originally interested in a combination of nickel and titanium called Nitinol to see if it could withstand re-entry into the atmosphere. This material is very elastic and flexible, and Nitinol wires are able to keep their shape after being bent and attached to teeth.

Houston, We Have A Problem

Braces slowly apply pressure to correct out of line teeth. Adjustments could last months or years until teeth are safely shifted into position. Frequent trips to the orthodontist are necessary for changing or adjusting certain wires because they kink over time and no longer put pressure on teeth. Unfortunately, replacing these wires can cause tenderness and some discomfort.

Benefits of ThisDental Braces Fact

Dental wires made of Nitinol respond to the body heat and move with teeth without kinking and would seldom need adjustments. This type of dental wire is a recommended option for young adults or children with sensitive teeth to limit the feeling of discomfort.

If you thought of, "I need to find a pediatric orthodontist near me." when looking for someone specializing in orthodontics, then Beecroft Orthodontics is the answer. They offer Fredericksburg Invisalign, lingual braces, metal braces and more. The variety offered at one location allows you to select what is best for your child and the new technologies in orthodontics will allow your kid to wear more comfortable, less noticeable braces. Many kids will not actually get to travel through space but those with braces will have better teeth.

Beecroft Orthodontics, 10472 Georgetown Dr. Fredericksburg, Virginia

Phone: 540-898-2200

Orthodontic Fact #9: Some dental wires used in dental braces are activated by body heat and were developed by NASA

Orthodontic Fact #8: The First Braces

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.

Orthodontic Fact #7: Improve your dental health in style. Many teens today fashion their dental braces with colored bands and brackets. Braces are now worn as a fashion statement

If you're a teenager and think that people who see your braces are going to make fun of you, don't worry. This orthodontic fact should help you realize that most people are going to be very supportive and impressed with your smile.

Colored Braces

Braces are considered to be a smart, fashionable statement.

The moment you smile while wearing them, you tell people that your oral health matters to you. You also let them see some of your personality through the type and color of braces you choose:

• Consider stainless steel colored dental braces. The color is achieved by wrapping the brackets with flexible bands available in one or more of a variety of colors and shades, such as white and light and dark yellow, blue, green, red, orange, purple and pink.

• Consider gold-coated braces to make it look like your parents spared no expense.

Hidden Options

If you don't want your braces to stand out, these options that allow you to retain all or most of your outward natural smile during treatment.

• Consider clear ceramic or lingual braces that make it appear like you're not wearing any braces at all. With lingual braces, the brackets and wires are affixed behind the teeth so that they are less noticeable.

• Consider Invisalign tray-style braces that are formed to match the shape of your teeth and gradually move them into a more optimal position.

If you're a parent and thinking, “I have younger children. Where can I find a pediatric dentist near me?”

You don't have to look any further. At Beecroft Orthodontics, we also offer a full range of dental services for children. We also offer all the styles mentioned including Invisalign Fredericksburg, Stafford, and King George.

Contact our expert caring team today for more information or to schedule an appointment!

Beecroft Orthodontics, 10472 Georgetown Dr. Fredericksburg, Virginia

Phone: 540-898-2200

Orthodontic Fact #7: Improve your dental health in style. Many teens today fashion their dental braces with colored bands and brackets. Braces are now worn as a fashion statement