For years there’s really been only one way to correct gaping, crowding, under or overbite: traditional, metallic braces. Like many common dental procedures, braces were originally considered to be cosmetic as the dental community was in agreement that straightening teeth was an unnecessary vanity, but research shows that a properly aligned bite is easier to care for preventing tooth decay and gum disease. Additionally, uneven pressure placed on teeth by a misaligned bite can damage the teeth that receive more pressure, and can even lead to TMJ disorder. It’s clear to the dental community today that straightening teeth is not just a cosmetic luxury, but what about braces? It seems we’ve been using the same basic treatments since the invention of braces and orthodontia in the 1800s. At Peterson & Cammack Dentistry in Lacey, WA, we offer a more traditional orthodontic option, but we also offer ClearCorrect clear braces to straighten teeth without the “metal mouth” or month after month of dental appointments for tightening and other maintenance. Call to schedule an appointment today.
Early Braces – Braces for the Dead, by Hand, and for Filling in the Gaps
You may have guessed that no dentist woke up with the idea of braces. The process of developing braces has taken thousands of years. Archaeologist have found numerous tombs with mummified bodies who had been fitted with a tooth alignment device to straighten their teeth for their next life. Ancient Romans had a few good ideas for straightening teeth. Initially, a medical practitioner spent weeks placing pressure on his teeth for hours at a time with his own hands. Aulus Cornelius Celsus noted that continued pressure for extended periods of time did, eventually shift his teeth slightly. Later romans used metallic wire tied around two teeth to close large gaps. Traditional braces that we think of today were developed beginning in the late 1700s, and the first full set of braces was placed in the early 1900s. In the last 100 years, braces have changed drastically becoming smaller and more comfortable for patients.
Clear Braces Straightening Options – ClearCorrect, Lacey
In the 1990s, clear braces were developed. It hasn’t taken quite as long for these to catch on, but they have improved in fit and precision since the last 1990s. At Peterson & Cammack Dentistry, we ClearCorrect clear braces. Our office creates a progressive set of aligners to gradually shift your teeth into alignment. These aligners fit your teeth snugly and apply gentle, constant pressure to shift teeth into place (similar to the idea Aulus Cornelius Celsus had when he tried to use his finger to align his teeth). After a few weeks, you’ll use a new set of aligners that will continue the gradual alignment of your bite. In 10 to 18 months, you can enjoy a picture-perfect smile.
Call Your Lacey Dentist for a Consultation
Straighter teeth don’t just look great, they feel great and help protect your teeth from damage over time. If you’re ready to try the next generation of braces, call to schedule a clear braces consultation today. We’ll examine your bite and determine if ClearCorrect braces are a good option to correct your bite irregularities. Our convenient Lacey, WA office welcomes patients from surrounding areas Tumwater, Olympia and beyond.