Orthodontics is an important specialty in the field of dentistry, focusing on diagnosing and treating problems of malocclusion, helping to comprehensively improve chewing function and smile aesthetics. The orthodontic process does not only stop at aligning teeth but also aims to prevent misalignment, create harmony in the jaw and improve confidence when smiling and speaking.
Compared to many other fields of dentistry, orthodontics developed very early into a deep specialty and requires orthodontists to have specialized and methodical training. The formation and development of orthodontics is associated with a long history, clearly reflecting the desire to own beautiful straight teeth that has existed since ancient times. Over hundreds of years, pioneers in this field have continuously contributed, making orthodontics a strong specialty with many outstanding modern achievements.
Understanding the history of orthodontics helps us appreciate current development trends, while avoiding past mistakes to aim for comprehensive contemporary treatment solutions. more present. Orthodontic treatment today not only focuses on aligning teeth but also focuses on re-establishing a balanced bite, in harmony with the jaw bone structure, creating a foundation for a healthy, natural and sustainable smile.
Discover the history of braces from Egyptian mummies to ancient Roman dental equipment
When it comes to orthodontics and its uses braces, many people think that these are modern medical inventions. However, archeology has proven the opposite: orthodontics has been around for a long time, with the first traces found on Egyptian mummies, as well as at archaeological sites of the Etruscans and ancient Roman civilizations.
Remains of braces tools on Egyptian mummies
Archaeologists have excavated many ancient Egyptian tombs and discovered that on the teeth of Egyptian mummies there were strings made from intestines. object. These wires have a shape very similar to today’s braces tools. They are placed for orthodontic purposes, especially to close gaps in the teeth, contributing to the aesthetic beauty of the deceased.
Ancient braces
Dental equipment in the burial rituals of the Etruscans and ancient Romans great
When did braces come into existence? The EtThe ruscans, ancestors of ancient Roman civilization, inhabited what is now Italy between 770 and 270 BC. According to archaeologists, they attached great importance to burial rituals, with the belief that taking careful care of the deceased’s body would help them enter the afterlife in the most perfect appearance.
Especially in burial rituals, the Etruscans used dental equipment similar to today’s braces. Archaeologists have discovered elaborate gold dental bridges, which were placed in the mouths of the dead to maintain space between teeth and prevent jaw distortion. These devices are mostly made from pure gold, called “gold bridges”, and are only found on female mummies.
Medieval braces
Unique orthodontic method using finger force of the ancient Romans modern
Not only using dental equipment, the ancient Romans also created a simple but effective orthodontic method, which is to use finger force to act on teeth. Cornelius Celsus Aulus (26 BC – 50), a famous medical researcher of ancient Rome, was the first to record this technique.
According to Celsus, patients with crooked teeth can use finger pressure every day to gradually bring the tooth to the standard position. In his notes, he affirmed that if baby teeth do not fall out at the right time, permanent teeth will grow crookedly. At that time, it is necessary to extract baby teeth promptly and use steady finger force to effectively reshape the tooth position.
Golden mark in the history of orthodontics
Archaeologists have also discovered many tombs in ancient Rome containing special dental tools. Small gold wires were found on the teeth of deceased people, with the same use as today’s braces. These findings show that orthodontic techniques of the ancient Romans achieved an incredible level of development, long before the concept of modern braces appeared.
History of orthodontic braces: From Origin of the digital age
18th century: Pioneering orthodontic inventions in France
The history of ancient braces marked a turning point in 1728 when Pierre Fauchard, the father of modern dentistry, published the famous book “Le ChirurgienDentiste.” This is the first dental document in the world to have a chapter dedicated to braces techniques, describing in detail the jaw expansion device called Blandeau to help align and straighten teeth.
In 1757, Pierre Bourdet, a dentist at the French royal court, published the book “The Art of Dentistry”, which focused on describing the techniques The technique of aligning teeth, laying the foundation for modern orthodontic techniques later.
Around 1770, the concept of orthodontic braces began to appear widely in medical literature, marking the first period of intensive research and development.
Braces were widely known thanks to Pierre Fauchard
19th century: The period of development of modern braces
In 1819, French dentist Christophe-Francois Delabarre invented the corrective wire first dentist, officially giving birth to modern orthodontic techniques. Orthodontic materials during this period were diverse, including gold, silver, platinum, steel, soft rubber, hard rubber, sometimes wood and ivory rubber to improve the relationship between the two jaws. In 1860, Norman W. Kingsley introduced modern orthodontic techniques using rubber bands and springs to continuously act on teeth.
In 1864, dentist SC Barnum invented rubber dams, supporting the attachment of braces. In 1880, Alan M. Coffin used springs The letter W improves braces technique.
Father of orthodontics Edward Angle
20th century: The golden era of orthodontics
Edward Angle, the father of modern orthodontics, built the first malocclusion classification system in 1901, laying a solid foundation for the orthodontic industry today.
Notable improvements. Other include:
In 1921, Calvin Case researched the technique of extruding and sinking teeth by attaching sutures and cleats.
In 1928, Spencer R. Atkinson invented universal braces with small round wires, simplifying the braces process. teeth.
In 1950, Percy Raymond Begg applied multi-loop round wire in orthodontic treatment.
1960s, Dr. Joseph W. Jarabak developed the edgewise method to reduce intermittent force, and at the same time, stainless steel became the optimal orthodontic material thanks to its durability, low cost and ease of operation.
In the 1970s, Polyvinyl siloxane was born to help take accurate jaw impressions, and the technique of attaching lingual braces was achieved. tested in the US and Japan.
21st century: Great progress with digital technology
Digital orthodontics has developed strongly since the early 2000s, notably CAD/CAM technology to help with accurate treatment planning and personalization of orthodontic archwires.
In 2008, the organization “Smile for a Lifetime” was born, providing free orthodontic services for children in difficult circumstances. difficulties, spreading the humanistic value of orthodontics.
In 2017, the CS4 orthodontic system was launched, a breakthrough from CS2000 and CS3, fully satisfying both expertise and user experience, improving orthodontic efficiency.
The history of orthodontic braces spans more than three centuries with outstanding inventions, from the time of Pierre Fauchard with the Blandeau appliance, to Edward Angle’s malocclusion classification system, and the great progress thanks to modern CAD/CAM technology. This is the foundation for millions of people today to be confident with perfect smiles thanks to increasingly improved orthodontic techniques.
Transparent braces technology
When did transparent braces appear?
If traditional metal braces were often inconvenient in terms of orthodontic aesthetics, then the appearance of transparent braces technology marked a groundbreaking turning point in the field of modern orthodontics.
In 1997, Zia Chishti, a former student ofI was studying at Stanford and first came up with the idea of a transparent plastic orthodontic tray – the predecessor of today’s Invisalign. His idea was inspired by his personal experience during orthodontics, when he wanted a more convenient solution, without the need to use wires and inconvenient metal brackets.
To turn this idea into reality, Chishti collaborated on research and development with classmate Kelsey Wirth, who also graduated from Stanford. They applied the most advanced computer software to design customized orthodontic trays that were both effective in moving teeth and ensuring outstanding aesthetics.
This invention was later named Invisalign – or commonly known as clear braces. Although launched in 1997, it was not until 2000 that Invisalign was officially put into widespread use in the global market, quickly becoming the leading orthodontic solution thanks to its effectiveness, comfort and convenience.
Although the history of orthodontics dates back to ancient times, modern orthodontic technology such as With Invisalign, today’s patients can be completely assured of the highest effectiveness and safety during the treatment process, while always ensuring the aesthetic beauty of their smile.
Popular braces methods today
Choosing the appropriate braces method is the deciding factor in the effectiveness of the orthodontic process. A good orthodontist will carefully consider many factors, especially the age of braces, current tooth condition and aesthetic needs to advise on the most appropriate braces method for each person.
Metal braces
Metal braces
Metal braces method is the most traditional and popular choice today. The braces system is made from a compact metal frame, attached directly to the tooth surface. The archwire combined with elastic O-rings will create a stable force on the teeth, helping the teeth move step by step to the correct position on the jaw. The biggest advantage of metal braces is that they are fast, sturdy, and have the most reasonable cost.
Ceramic braces
Ceramic braces
Ceramic braces are a more aesthetically pleasing orthodontic solution thanks to their similar color to real teeth, helping to reduce attention when communicating. However, ceramic braces often have a higher cost than wire Metal braces and durability are also a bit more limited. This type of braces is suitable for people who prioritize aesthetic appearance during orthodontic treatment.
Lingual braces
Facial braces lingual braces
Lingual braces is a special cosmetic braces method where the braces are placed completely on the inside of the teeth. This makes it difficult for the other person to recognize that you are undergoing orthodontic treatment. However, this method requires very high skill of the doctor, the oral hygiene process is also more complicated and the treatment time is often longer. longer than other methods.
Transparent braces, also known as orthodontic trays
Transparent braces (Alignment trays) dental)
Transparent braces, also known as orthodontic trays, are the most modern orthodontic method today. Transparent orthodontic trays are made of high-quality medical plastic, designed to fit each person’s tooth condition, and can be easily removed when eating or cleaning teeth. This type of braces provides excellent aesthetics However, the cost of clear braces will be significantly higher than traditional braces methods.
What ages are braces suitable for?
Braces are a popular solution to help correct misaligned teeth, resulting in beautiful, healthy teeth.Many people still wonder about the appropriate age to get braces to achieve the most optimal results. In fact, braces do not have a specific age limit, anyone with needs and qualifications for oral health can apply this method.
According to orthodontist experts, the effectiveness of braces will be different depending on the age at which it begins:
Braces in children (about 8 – 16 years old): This is the most ideal stage for braces, because at this time the jawbone is developing and flexible, helping teeth easily move into the desired position, significantly shortening braces time.
Braces in adults (over 18 years old): Even though the jawbone is stronger, braces are still effective, especially for those who want to improve tooth aesthetics and improve chewing function. However, treatment time usually lasts longer than for children.
In addition to age, the effectiveness of braces also depends on other factors:
Treatment goals: What problem do you want to fix? Clear, specific goals such as aesthetics or chewing function will determine the most appropriate braces method and treatment plan.
Oral health status: If you have problems with your teeth and gums (such as tooth decay, gingivitis), you need to treat your teeth and gums before braces to avoid complications and achieve optimal results.
Brackets: Choosing the right type of device for your tooth condition will greatly determine the effectiveness of braces. You should consult an orthodontist to choose the most optimal appliance.
Diet and oral care: A reasonable nutritional regimen combined with proper oral hygiene habits will help teeth move stably and quickly, ensuring maximum effectiveness of the braces process.
The duration of braces usually ranges from 1 to 3 years
How long does it take to see clear results with braces?
The duration of braces usually ranges from 1 to 3 years. However, the results of braces will be different for each person depending on many unique factors. Some cases can be completed faster than expected, but there are also cases where time needs to be extendedMore treatment than usual.
Factors that determine braces time:
Tooth condition: Braces time is directly affected by the complexity of the initial tooth condition such as buck teeth, underbite, crooked or heavily misaligned teeth. The more serious the condition, the longer the treatment time.
Braces method: Each braces method such as metal braces, ceramic braces or clear braces will have a different speed of tooth movement. In particular, metal braces often bring faster results than ceramic braces or clear braces.
Age for braces: The ideal time to get braces is when you are young, especially in your teens because at this time the jawbone is more flexible and easier to correct. Adults often take more time to achieve the desired results.
Follow the instructions from the orthodontist: Strictly following the orthodontist’s instructions on wearing appliances, a suitable diet and thorough oral hygiene will significantly shorten the time of braces, while increasing the effectiveness of treatment. treatment.
After removing braces, you need to wear a retainer to keep your teeth from shifting back to their old position. Typically, for the first 6 months, your orthodontist will ask you to wear your retainer continuously day and night. After this period, you can simply wear it at night while sleeping. Wearing a retainer can be maintained for many years depending on the doctor’s prescription to ensure the most stable long-term braces results.
