Unless you’ve needed braces, you’ve probably never given much thought to how straight smiles are carefully crafted, beyond the ‘train track’ braces we’re all familiar with.
But in fact, there’s a lot more you should know about teeth straightening – it’s not as simple as: orthodontist puts them on, they straighten your teeth, then the orthodontist takes them off.
So, brace yourself for these 10 fascinating facts about dental braces!
- Orthodontics are well over 300 Years Old
Braces as we know them today (minus dental care advances that come with the progression of science), were invented in 1728 by Pierre Fauchard – the father of modern dentistry.
But the idea of straightening teeth dates back even further, and archaeologists have found rudimentary braces in the mouths of mummified Egyptians!
- The NASA Connection
The wire that orthodontists use for braces was invented by NASA. This wasn’t the intended use for this new metal – NASA had their sights set on space.
But if you ever feel self-conscious about your braces, just remember that they’re giving you a smile that’s out of this world!
- Not Just Wire
Of course, when you think of braces, the ones that come to mind are the wired ones. But did you know that there are 10 different types of braces on the market?
And one of the fastest-growing in popularity are clear braces, like those offered by Portman Clear Brace Group. Invisalign are one of the best-known clear brace brands and their solutions take much of the self-consciousness out of orthodontic treatment.
- Used to be Gold
Before the invention of stainless steel, and then NASA’s other-worldly creation, braces used to be made from gold.
Gold’s malleable nature made it the perfect metal for the job. Chances are your ancestors had a 24-karat smile!
- Not Magnetic
There are plenty of myths surrounding braces, some believable, and others ridiculous, so let’s clear them up.
Despite what cartoons probably led you to believe, braces are not magnetic. Nor are you going to set off the metal detector at the airport!
And don’t worry, you aren’t going to start picking up radio signals, either!
- Never Too Late
Popular culture has probably also led you to believe that braces are only for teenagers, but plenty of adults seek the treatment too!
In fact, two thirds of orthodontists report that they have seen an increase in adult patients in search of that perfect straight smile.
You’re never too old for braces… unless of course you’ve already lost your real teeth.
- Younger Than You Thought
You also might not realise that children can have braces too.
In some cases, children as young as seven need orthodontist appointments, and the presence of baby teeth can help practitioners gain a better idea of what shape the teeth will take.
- Teeth Can Move Back
Even after your braces are removed, your teeth can sneak back into their old positions.
This is why dentists are so adamant that you wear your retainers… so, listen to them, they know what they’re talking about!
- Years of Training
All orthodontists are dentists but not all dentists are orthodontists.
In the UK, orthodontists have to train for eight years to gain the required experience and qualifications; they have to train as general dentists first!
- Celebrity Cliental
There are even celebrities who have needed braces, really proving that not everyone is lucky enough to be born with a perfect smile!
Famous names such as Tom Cruise, Emma Watson, the Williams sisters, and Nicholas Cage, have all required braces to straighten their smiles
Dental braces have a fascinating history that has led to the incredible advancements in sparkling smile solutions!
Are you looking for that perfect smile? Contact us today to find out more!
