History and Types of Braces
Have you ever asked yourself what is the history and types of braces there are? After archaeological excavations of ancient civilizations, archaeologists have been able to determine that dental care was a significant factor in the lives of many throughout much of time. While straight teeth may seem like a modern concern due to aesthetic purposes in the ages of media, the purpose was not just for this reason in the past. In order to understand how orthodontics and braces can positively impact your life, you must begin with the earliest of beings. Keep reading below to understand how modern-day orthodontics evolved from ancient civilizations and past cultural uses of braces.
Egypt
Plenty of archaeological excavations have led to the identification of braces on mummified individuals. When a mummy is created, they are embalmed to preserve the body and then wrapped to maintain as much of their natural characteristics as possible. This was a popular tradition in ancient Egypt. Because of this, people have been able to determine how braces were used in their past culture. Their braces were quite unique, being metal wires wrapped around the teeth. These would be tightened and pulled into place. It is thought that braces were used to increase the aesthetics during burial of high ranking and respected individuals in order to improve how they looked to the general public. Ancient Egypt is the earliest civilization we have traced back to that used a form of braces. Thankfully, since then, our practices have become more modern.
Rome and Greece
The next advanced form of orthodontic braces seen in history was in the times of ancient Rome and Greece. These were used when the individual was alive, compared to Egyptians who used them as a burial tradition. A man named Aulus Cornelius Celsus theorized how teeth can be pressured and forced into a different oral place with pressure. This was widely discarded as a good idea because this idea was not widely accepted at the time. Once time passed, he began practicing and writing down his findings, placing palate expanders in patients’ mouths, and recording the results. People began to catch on over time, and orthodontic practices significantly grew.
Modern Orthodontics
Over time, orthodontics has greatly improved and been reformed to create comfort and convenience for the patient. Now, because of all of the advances made by ancient civilizations and our past people, we have been able to perfect the idea of braces. Braces in modern day are most commonly seen as brackets fixed to the tooth, connected by wires, that are gradually tightened every four to six weeks. Other alternatives exist, though, for people who don’t want to have metal affecting their smile. Options include ceramic braces, clear braces, and aligner tray braces. All of these are great for different cases and people depending on their lifestyle and what they’re looking to improve about their teeth. Modern braces have significantly improved since our past humans’ creation of them, and because of it, people can receive beautifully straight teeth.
Interested in Braces?
If you have teeth that are misaligned, have gaps between them, or suffer from overcrowding, braces could significantly benefit you. Thankfully, since the practice of orthodontics and idea of braces has improved over time, you’re sure to get the best treatment possible.
To ensure you receive amazing results, the best orthodontist in New York City, NYC Dental Orthodontics, can help you out! Schedule an appointment with us today to discuss how we can improve your oral health and teeth alignment.
