Facts about Orthodontics

Orthodontics is a dental specialty that deals with tooth misalignment. You may not be aware, but the first recognized specialty in dentistry is orthodontics. Orthodontic treatment has long been necessary to straighten crooked teeth.

Below are some orthodontic facts you may not have known:

1. Orthodontics was founded in 1900

The first dentist to concentrate solely on orthodontics in his practice was Edward H. Angle in 1900. He was known as the first orthodontist and was instrumental in the formation of the American Association of Orthodontics. The ability of gold to be easily shaped at the time made it the material of choice for teeth braces and other dental materials.

2. Metal braces strengthen your teeth

The tooth surface is meticulously cleaned before applying metal braces to ensure the bracket can firmly cling to the tooth. When the bracket is attached to the tooth with cement, fluoride is released into the tooth. Fluoride has long been known in dentistry to strengthen the tooth structure.

3. NASA invented the wires that are used in braces

You may already know that nickel-titanium is a component of some brace wiring. Are you aware that NASA created this alloy specifically to be used in space? These thin, extremely elastic, and flexible wires are used in orthodontic appliances and can maintain their shape even after being strained and fastened to the teeth, thanks to body heat.

4. Appliances Are Important, But The Orthodontist Is More Important

orthodontic devices are instruments an orthodontist uses to achieve the desired outcomes. However, the expertise of the orthodontist, not the orthodontic appliance, determines successful treatment outcomes. It is why it is far more advantageous to seek orthodontic treatment from an orthodontist rather than a regular dentist. General dentists are very knowledgeable about teeth but lack the skills that an orthodontist has.

5. Over one million Americans have braces

Wearing traditional or invisible braces has no age restrictions. Certain are more advantageous than others depending on the patient, but teeth can be changed at any age. Braces are used to treat overbites and jaw alignment issues and are also considered advantageous from a cosmetic standpoint. In the US, having a straight smile and well-aligned teeth is typical and can make someone fit in.

6. In 1900, braces were typically made of gold

Gold was simple to form into an orthodontic device. Gold stretches easily because it is malleable. Patients had to visit their orthodontist frequently to make adjustments to their braces.

7. When pressure is applied to teeth, they move gradually.

Orthodontists use devices like braces and aligners to continuously apply mild pressure to move teeth into their ideal positions.