Joe Wilson
Some Fun Facts About History and Advances in Orthodontics

At the office of Orthodontics, Inc. we use only the most up-to-date techniques, technologies, and materials to deliver state-of-the-art results. Yet, we’re quite well-versed in the history of our profession, or the “roots” of orthodontics, if you will.
For our patients and soon-to-be patients, here are some fun facts to enjoy about the history of orthodontics:
The word orthodontics comes from the Greek language, with “ortho” meaning straight or correct, and “dont” representing the tooth.
The earliest mention of dental irregularities is credited to Hippocrates in about 400 BC, according to The History of Orthodontics.
Orthodontic work that resembles today’s practices was first done in Europe, chiefly in France, in the 17th and 18th centuries.
The accidental discovery of X-rays by Bavarian physics professor Wilhelm Roentgen in 1895 substantially increased the accuracy of orthodontic treatments.
Dentist Edward Hartley Angle is credited with being the “father of modern orthodontics,” founding a school to teach this specialty in St. Louis, Missouri, in the early 20th century.
The thin metal wires used in today’s orthodontics were invented for NASA’s space program.
Braces will not set off the metal detectors at an airport or other public government buildings. No need to be concerned with being stopped by security.
All orthodontists are dentists, but only six percent of dentists have completed the additional schooling necessary to specialize in moving teeth and aligning jaws.
Digital technologies in imaging, computer modeling and three-D printing are creating even greater accuracy for diagnoses and laboratory fabrication.
While the methods in the field of orthodontics have changed a lot over the years, our commitment at the office of Orthodontics, Inc. has remained the same. We specialize in state-of-the-art treatments that provide radiant, healthy, long-lasting smiles that will feel comfortable and function as beautifully as they look. Please contact the office today to schedule an appointment.