People have always strived to retain their teeth. Certain classes throughout the centuries tried to make their teeth as white as possible. The ancient Egyptians had their own form of dentistry – or at least the wealthy and priestly classes did. Yet, nowhere was there a means for straightening adult teeth. That was to emerge with the invention of Invisalign.
Early Braces
Yet, while many cultures have worked hard to retain and maintain their teeth, little was done to successfully address crooked teeth until the early 20th century. With advances in technology, braces began to develop in a fashion that was effective. From 1901, onwards, after the establishment of the first College of Orthodontics, new and exciting changes rippled through this field.
Yet, braces were still the exclusive burden – for children felt this to be their reality, throughout the modern period. Children wore contraptions that resembled steel cages. They proved to be effective, but their general appearance resulted in some less than friendly mocking by friends and schoolmates. Retainers made the wearing of some form of protection unrelenting. Children and elsewhere around the country and continent wore braces both night and day in their parent’s attempts to get their teeth back into line.
Technological Advances
The driving force behind dental brace changes was technology. In the 1950s, stainless steel became a replacement metal. This made braces more flexible and lighter. During the 1970s, dentists discovered and employed direct bonding. Meanwhile, researchers were working on a dental breakthrough that would shake up the general expectations of braces. In 1997, Invisalign braces made their appearance.
What Is the Significance of Invisalign Braces?
While people have continued to create braces for children that are lighter, contain less abrasive metal and are generally more visually appealing, this has not created excitement. Invisalign has. For centuries, adults had only one chance to straighten their teeth – when they were children. With the invention of this product, that all changed.
The adults who qualified could now wear braces that suit their lifestyle and straightened their teeth. The new style and type of braces made it possible for an adult to function normally in their work world. They could wear these essentially invisible braces while performing their usual chores. They could even wear them while enjoying much else of their lives.
Wearing these braces is not a cure all. It does require the ability to adhere to specific instructions and follow protocol. Yet many adults are willing to try. They want something they could not achieve in their childhood. They can now have a chance to obtain the type of smile they have always wanted thanks to Invisalign braces.
If you are in need of Invisalign in Staten Island, NY, then you will need to contact Brooklyn Orthodontics for more information.
