• Braces Have a Very Old and Distinguished History

  • Those in ancient Rome were worried about their smile.

    Those in ancient Rome were worried about their smile.

    Did you know that even in ancient times, people wanted to improve the look and function of their smiles? If you come in to Columbia Orthodontics, you are going to get the most modern orthodontic treatment available. The  efficiency we offer has not always been the case in ancient orthodontic practices.  Here are some of the highlights in regards to the progression of braces.

    Evidence suggests both those in Greece and Rome were worried about having straight teeth.

    In the area that is now known as Italy, archaeologists discovered mummified remains that have metal bands wrapped around the teeth.

    A Roman tomb has also been discovered in which the teeth were bound with gold wire.

    The “father” of modern dentistry, a French dentist named Pierre Fauchard, published a book in 1728 describing various methods of straightening teeth.

    Another French dentist published a book in 1754 that discussed the alignment of teeth. He was known to extract bicuspids or premolar teeth to reduce tooth crowding.

    By the 19th century, orthodontics started to become a separate dental specialty. The first wire crib was used in 1819, during this period, gold, platinum, silver, steel, gum rubber, vulcanite, and occasionally wood, ivory, zinc, and copper were used to straighten teeth.

    The first documented case of using gum elastics were in 1842.

    The American Society of Orthodontia was founded in 1901, which was renamed the American Association of Orthodontists in the 1930s.

    The advancements today are phenomenal. Your treatment plan will be created with 3D digital modeling and we use  a computerized process to customize the process specifically to you.

    Regardless of your specific treatment plan, the development of high-tech materials and methods has made it possible for your orthodontic experience to be as effective, efficient, and comfortable as possible. Call us at Dr. Croft’s office if you have any questions about your present treatment or to come in for a consultation.

    We have three offices for your convenience.

    Battle Ground Office

    909 W Main Street, Suite. 110
    Battle Ground, WA 98604

    Cascade Park Office

    234 SE 136th Avenue Suite #105
    Vancouver, WA 98684

    (360) 883-3800

    Salmon Creek Office

    14201 NE 20th Avenue Suite #3103
    Vancouver, WA 98686

    (360) 883-3800