6 Things You Never Knew About Braces | Orthodontist Lancaster County
The desire for straighter teeth goes back thousands of years. We’ve come a long way in improving our smiles. Braces [https://weibelorthodontics.com/services/orthodontic-services/braces/] have evolved over time to become more comfortable and efficient. Here are six things you probably never knew about braces.
1. ANCIENT EGYPTIANS MAY HAVE WANTED STRAIGHTER TEETH
Archaeologists have found mummies with cords wound around their teeth, likely to straighten them. What were these ancient braces made from? Animal intestines. Thankfully, our orthodontist has more modern materials to work with!
2. YOU’RE NOT ALONE
An estimated 4 million people in the US currently are wearing braces or another device to correct their teeth [https://weibelorthodontics.com/warning-diy-braces-pose-a-real-danger-orthodontist-in-lancaster-county-pa/]. That’s a little more than the number of people living in Los Angeles.
3. GETTING BRACES IS A LITTLE LIKE ROCKET SCIENCE
NASA scientists were looking for a flexible material for solar panels and turned to a metal called nitinol 60. As nitinol heats up, it reverts to its original shape. Today, nitinol is used in braces. The heat from your mouth makes the metal return to its original shape, helping guide your teeth to where they should be.
4. WEAR YOUR RETAINER!
Did you know that an estimated 25% of braces wearers neglect to wear their retainer? Many end up needing a second set of br...
