While orthodontics have a long and interesting history, you may only know about braces. For hundreds and hundreds of years, humans have been using numerous ways to straighten teeth. Thankfully, modern technology has progressed to give you more options than ever before if you want to correct your smile. However, it wasn’t always this way. Keep reading to learn 7 interesting facts that you probably didn’t know about orthodontics from an orthodontist in Carrollton.
#1. People Have Always Had Crooked Teeth
Archeologists have found Egyptian mummies with metal bands wrapped around their teeth to correct them. Additionally, Hippocrates, an ancient Greek doctor, has written about misaligned teeth and jaws around 400 BCE.
#2. The Word “Orthodontics” Has Greek Origin
The word “ortho” means straight, while “dont” means tooth. If you put them together, orthodontics means straight teeth. Be sure not to confuse the word “dont” with “don’t.”
#3. Gold Was the Metal of Choice Around 1900
Gold was the metal of choice for teeth straightening appliances in 1900 because it is so malleable. However, patients had to visit their orthodontist for adjustments frequently because it can change shape so easily.
#4. Orthodontics Was the First Dental Specialty
Edward H. Angle was the first orthodontist in 1900. He was the first one to limit his dental practice to orthodontics only and he also established the American Association of Orthodontists. Little did he know this small group would turn into tens of thousands of members.
#5. Teeth Move in Response to Pressure
Some pressure is beneficial while other pressure may be harmful. Braces and aligners gradually shift your teeth into place in a healthy way, but habits like thumb sucking can create damaging pressure that pushes your teeth out of place.
#6. Orthodontic Treatment is a Professional Service
With a rise in teeth straightening products, mail-orders, and DIY methods, now is a better time than ever to understand that orthodontic treatment should only be done by a professional. Braces and aligners are useful tools in the hands of a professional, but they can cause damage and misalignment if they aren’t used properly.
#7. Teeth Can Move Because Your Bone Breaks and Rebuilds
There are cells in your body that break down and rebuild bone. This process, called bone remodeling, can be supported by a healthy and balanced diet.
Now that you know more about orthodontics, do you like the alignment of your smile? Contact your orthodontist near me to get started on a more beautiful and straighter grin.
Meet the Dentist
Dr. Anas Athar is an experienced orthodontist with impressive credentials. In addition to advanced training in several specialties, he has been awarded Orthodontist of the Year in 2016, Distinguished Teacher of the Year in 2007, and Dental Specialist of the year in 2016. He currently practices at Bringing Smiles, and he can be contacted through his website or by phone at one of his 6 locations for any questions.