Braces stand as the quintessential innovative orthodontic invention. Traditional metal braces defined orthodontics for much of the 20th century and continue to do so today, even as other innovative orthodontic inventions, such as Invisalign clear retainers, have emerged to challenge the primacy of braces. The tradition, reputation, and tested quality of braces, however, have ensured that they remain a cornerstone of orthodontic treatment, helping millions of patients around the world correct dental misalignments, improve their bite, and achieve healthier, more aesthetically pleasing smiles.
This AlgerBlog explores the history, function, and impact of braces on the field of orthodontics in order to highlight its legacy as one of the essential innovative orthodontic inventions of the modern day.
The History of Braces
Braces: The Early Origins
The idea of straightening teeth goes back much further than many might expect. Archaeological evidence suggests that rudimentary dental devices existed in the ancient cultures of Egypt, Etruria, the Roman Empire, and Ancient Greece. Writings by the Greek philosophers Hippocrates and Celsus, for example, mentioned methods for aligning teeth as far back as the 4th and 5th centuries. Additionally, mummies have even been found with crude metal bands wrapped around their teeth—early prototypes of the modern bracket system.
It wasn’t until the 18th century, however, that orthodontics began to emerge as a formal discipline. In 1728, French dentist Pierre Fauchard, often referred to as the "Father of Modern Dentistry," developed a device called the bandeau, a horseshoe-shaped piece of iron used to expand the arch of the mouth. While primitive by today's standards, the bandeau laid the groundwork for future orthodontic appliances.
Braces in the 20th Century
The real transformation of orthodontics began in the early 1900s. American dentist Edward H. Angle, considered the founder of modern orthodontics, classified types of malocclusions and designed a variety of appliances to treat them. He introduced the edgewise appliance in the 1920s, which became the foundation for modern bracket systems.
By the 1950s and 60s, stainless steel became the material of choice for brackets and wires, replacing gold and silver, which were prohibitively expensive. This innovation made orthodontic treatment more accessible to the general public and led to the widespread use of what we now call "traditional metal braces."
In the 1970s, another major advancement arrived: dental adhesives that allowed brackets to be bonded directly to the surface of teeth. Before this, braces had to be wrapped around teeth with metal bands—a more cumbersome and less aesthetic process.
How Traditional Braces Work
Traditional braces consist of several foundational parts:
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Brackets: Small metal or ceramic squared brackets attached to each tooth.
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Archwires: Thin metal wires that connect brackets and guide teeth into position.
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Ligatures: Small rubber bands or wires that are placed within the brackets and hold the archwire in position.
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Elastic bands: Sometimes used to adjust bite alignment or jaw positioning.
These components work together--and sometimes with the aid of additional parts, including springs, hooks, a bite ramp, etc.--to apply consistent, gentle pressure on the teeth, gradually shifting them into alignment over time. Orthodontists make regular adjustments to tighten the wires and continue progress toward the treatment goal.
Treatment typically lasts between 18 to 36 months, depending on the complexity of the case. After active treatment, a retainer is used to maintain the results and prevent teeth from shifting back.
The Impact of Braces on Orthodontics
Comprehensive Treatment Capabilities
Braces have always been valued for their ability to treat a wide range of dental and skeletal issues. From mild crowding and spacing to severe bite problems like overbites, underbites, and crossbites, braces can handle virtually any orthodontic challenge. Even today, they remain the most reliable option for correcting complex cases—often serving as the treatment of choice when aligners alone are not sufficient.
Standardizing Orthodontic Care
Braces played a crucial role in the professionalization and standardization of orthodontic care. As appliances became more refined, orthodontists began developing formal protocols for treatment planning, case classification, and progress tracking. Braces helped create a universal system of care that could be replicated across practices and geographies, improving consistency and outcomes.
The Legacy of Braces
Innovation That Continues to Evolve
While traditional metal braces might seem low-tech compared to modern aligners, they’ve continued to evolve. Today’s brackets are smaller, sleeker, and more comfortable than their predecessors. Some are made from ceramic or clear materials for a more discreet appearance. Heat-activated wires now respond to body temperature to provide more efficient tooth movement with less discomfort. Heat-activated wire is also used as memory wire, which utilizes the natural heat of a patient’s mouth to reinforce the set shape of the braces ensuring a more consistent application of pressure and fewer trips to the orthodontist for correction.
Braces also laid the foundation for newer technologies. The precision and control they offer inspired the development of digital tools like 3D modeling and robotic wire bending—technologies now used across many orthodontic systems, including aligners.
Still the Gold Standard for Many Cases
Even with the rise of clear aligners, like Invisalign, braces remain the gold standard for comprehensive orthodontic care. They are especially well-suited for younger patients, complex dental cases, and individuals requiring precise jaw alignment. In fact, many orthodontic treatments today involve a hybrid approach—starting with braces and transitioning to aligners or vice versa.
A Timeless Treatment
Despite their age, braces are far from obsolete. They are time-tested, versatile, and capable of delivering predictable, long-lasting results. For millions of patients, they’ve made beautiful smiles—and healthier bites—possible.
Braces and the Future of Orthodontics
As orthodontics continues to evolve, expanding the integration of digital planning, artificial intelligence, and increasingly aesthetic treatment options, traditional braces will continue to evolve. But one thing remains clear: braces built the foundation of modern orthodontics. Their impact on the industry is immeasurable, and their legacy endures as one of the industry’s core innovative orthodontic inventions.
Visit algerinc.com to continue your education of dental and orthodontic history, learn about other interesting topics, and--if you’re a practicing dentist or orthodontist--read about Alger Inc.’s prized piece of dental technology: AlgerLight with LED.