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10 Interesting Facts About Orthodontics


Orthodontics, a branch of dentistry, plays a pivotal role in correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. Though many are familiar with braces and aligners, there’s much more to the field than meets the eye. Here are 10 interesting facts about orthodontics that you may not know.


1. Orthodontics Dates Back to Ancient Times


Orthodontic treatments are not a modern invention. Archaeological findings have shown that ancient civilizations like the Egyptians used crude metal bands around their teeth to try to correct alignment. It’s fascinating how far the field has come since then.


2. Braces Can Be Customised to Your Personality


Today's orthodontic technology allows for personalization. You can choose the colour of your brackets, and with clear aligners like Invisalign, you can go almost invisible! Whether you want to stand out or blend in, there’s a solution for every preference.


3. Orthodontists Are Specialists


Not all dentists are orthodontists. Orthodontists undergo additional years of specialised training—usually two to three years beyond dental school—focused solely on correcting dental and facial irregularities.


4. Early Evaluation is Key


The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children should have their first orthodontic evaluation by the age of 7. Early detection of potential issues can help prevent more severe problems later on.


5. It's Not Just About Straight Teeth


Orthodontics improves more than just the appearance of your smile. By aligning teeth and jaws, it enhances overall oral health, prevents wear and tear on teeth, and can even improve your ability to speak and chew properly.


6. Adults Can Benefit Too


Orthodontic treatment is not just for kids and teenagers. Adults make up about 25% of orthodontic patients. Clear aligners and ceramic braces offer discreet options for adults who want to improve their smile without the visibility of traditional metal braces.


7. Braces Are More Comfortable Than Ever


Gone are the days of bulky, uncomfortable braces. Today’s braces are smaller, lighter, and much more comfortable than their predecessors, thanks to advancements in materials and technology.


8. Orthodontic Care Can Help With Jaw Pain


Misaligned teeth and jaws can cause temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, which lead to jaw pain and headaches. Orthodontic treatment can help alleviate these issues by correcting the alignment of your bite.


9. Retainers Are Crucial After Braces


After braces are removed, wearing a retainer is essential to maintaining the new position of your teeth. Teeth can shift back into their original positions without consistent retainer use.


10. Self-Ligating Braces Speed Up Treatment


Self-ligating braces use a specialised clip instead of elastic bands to hold the wire in place. This can reduce friction and the number of visits to the orthodontist, often speeding up the treatment process.


FAQs About Orthodontics


Q1. What’s the best age to start orthodontic treatment?


While children should have an orthodontic evaluation by age 7, treatment can begin at any age. Early diagnosis helps in planning preventive or interceptive measures.


Q2. How long does orthodontic treatment take?


The duration varies depending on the severity of the problem and the type of treatment. Most patients wear braces for 1 to 3 years.


Q3. Can adults get braces?


Yes, adults can get braces or aligners. About 1 in 4 orthodontic patients are adults. Clear aligners are a popular choice for adults seeking a more discreet treatment.


Q4. Are braces painful?


Braces may cause some discomfort, especially after adjustments, but today’s braces are much more comfortable than they used to be. Any discomfort usually subsides within a few days.


Q5. How do I take care of my teeth with braces?


Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial. You should brush after every meal, floss daily, and use special tools like interdental brushes to clean around the brackets and wires.


Q6. What’s the difference between a dentist and an orthodontist?


While both are dental professionals, orthodontists have additional specialised training in correcting teeth and jaw alignment. All orthodontists are dentists, but not all dentists are orthodontists.


Q7. Can orthodontic treatment fix an overbite?


Yes, orthodontic treatment can correct various bite problems, including overbites, underbites, and crossbites. Braces or aligners are commonly used to fix these issues.



Etobicoke Orthodontics is a fascinating and essential field that goes far beyond aesthetics. Whether for functional improvements or a confidence boost, modern orthodontics offers a range of treatments for patients of all ages.

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