It’s National Orthodontic Health Month!
Sure, this time of year is all about falling leaves, pumpkin spice, and trick-or-treating. But for us here at A Perfect Smile Orthodontics, it’s also about orthodontic health awareness!
National Orthodontic Health Month gives us the chance to celebrate the benefits of orthodontic treatment and all those healthy, beautiful smiles. It also gives us another opportunity to focus on the importance of good oral health — particularly in this season of so much candy!
The purpose of National Orthodontic Health Month is to create awareness about orthodontics and how essential it is to your overall dental and physical health. To that end, here are a few key points:
- The recommended age for a child’s first orthodontic check-up is no later than age 7.
- Orthodontists not only straighten teeth but also correct abnormal bites such as crossbites, overbites, or underbites.
- Orthodontists can also correct crowded teeth, spacing or gaps between teeth, narrow palates, extra teeth, impacted teeth, and more.
- You can have your teeth straightened and your bite corrected at ANY AGE.
Want to Learn More? Schedule Your Free Consultation!
Call us at 956.403.6080, or complete the form below now!
The History of Orthodontics
Did you know that the concept of straightening teeth has been around since ancient Egypt? It’s true: they used a substance produced from animal intestines to shift teeth into better alignment. And in ancient Rome, a scientist discovered that putting finger pressure on teeth for a long time, over a period of months, could help shift teeth into a new position. There’s also archeological evidence that the Etruscans used gold wire to keep teeth in place and maintain the spaces.
In the 1700s, French dentist and surgeon Pierre Fauchard created a device called the Bandeau. This horseshoe-shaped metal device had wires coming through that to attach it to the teeth — scary looking by today’s standards, but revolutionary at the time!
Fauchard’s Bandeau
Orthodontics wasn’t defined as a separate dental specialty until the 1800s, and the term orthodontia was first used in 1841. Materials like precious metals, steel, and gum rubber were used to create appliances that would straighten teeth. And rubber bands for braces were first used in 1850.
The American Society of Orthodontia was founded in 1901 and renamed the American Association of Orthodontists in the 1930s. In the early 1900s, orthodontists began wrapping different materials around the teeth and connecting them with bands. By the 1960s, gold was a popular material choice, and then stainless steel took over in the 1970s. It wasn’t until the mid-70s that orthodontists started adhering brackets directly to the teeth instead of wrapping them around.
It’s amazing to see how fast technology progressed from that point, with invisible braces in 1987 to Invisalign in 1998. And the technology of creating braces has also grown by leaps and bounds over the past twenty years, including 3D dental imaging to create digital impressions of the teeth.
Today, you have so many options to straighten your teeth and perfect your smile. And to think, it all started back in ancient Egypt!
Tips to Treat Your Braces Right This Month
Yes, you can still enjoy your October festivities — even the Halloween candy, as long as you do it right. Here are a few tips on what to avoid and what to enjoy (in moderation, of course).
Treats to Avoid:
- Caramels and taffy
- Hard and/or chewy candy
- Jellybeans
- Lollipops
- Bubblegum
- Popcorn and nuts
Treats to Enjoy:
- Chocolate bars (no nuts)
- Peanut butter cups
- Soft cookies
- Marshmallows
And make sure to brush and floss well during this Halloween season, especially after eating any sugary or starchy food.
What’s the Best Way to Celebrate National Orthodontic Health Month?
We think the best way to celebrate is to schedule a free consultation with our Board Certified Orthodontist, Dr. David Taylor.
Dr. Taylor and our team at A Perfect Smile Orthodontics will take the time and care to see if orthodontics can help you achieve the beautiful, healthy smile you’ve always wanted.
Your first appointment is always free and includes an exam, including x-rays. Our state-of-the-art facility is up to date on all the latest technology, so you can feel confident that you are getting the very best care. Our staff is both professional and fun, and we strive to make your experience smooth and enjoyable!
Get Started Now! Schedule Your Free Consultation!
Call us at 956.630.6166, or complete the form below now!
