The video gives an impression of modern braces and the comparative pleasure of wearing them, compared to a few years ago. Advances are continuing at a faster pace than anyone could imagine.
Braces are far from a new idea, the ancient Egyptians and Etruscans used them. Teeth straightening was popular in the Roman Empire, with an approach which lasted many centuries.
Devices made from animal skin, gold, or ivory remained much the same, until the age of scientific enlightenment brought a methodical approach. Work in the 17th and 18th centuries leading to what we might call braces.
In 1819, a French dentist created the first wire “crib” to be placed over teeth. Improvements, such as the addition of elastics and a protective latex layer were in place by the 1840s.
Other than the development of individual brackets, this approach lasted until the 1970s, when new technology started to influence orthodontics.
The Modern Era
Finely worked stainless steel and temporary adhesives strong enough to hold brackets onto teeth led modern ideas. They also began a significant change in dental thinking.
A belief in removing teeth to give room to straighten others had already lessened but went further. Preservation of nature by realignment rightly became the focus of orthodontics.
Accuracy and control improved planning. A concept 21st century technology has enhanced, through the use of better materials, such as shape memory wire and remarkable developments in the digital world.
The Latest Braces
How much braces have changed is evident in the styles you see people wearing, from almost invisible, to an interesting fashion accessory. Behind the scenes, differences are just as radical.
Taking moulds has largely been replaced by digital scanning and 3D modelling. The future can be predicted, so you can see what will be achieved and your orthodontist can truly personalise treatment.
Treatment times have come down, if you don’t want your braces to be easily seen, such as in Clarity Ceramic Braces, they are just as effective. Above all, technology has brought increasing success rates.
As a Harley Street orthodontist, we want to offer the latest, proven techniques and welcome them. Our clinic also ensures this is balanced with your wishes on fixed braces and by well considered, individual care.
