8 Fun and Interesting Facts About Your Braces

IMPROVING YOUR SMILE through orthodontic treatment is serious business… But there’s a fun side too! So, for today’s post, here’s a list of fun, interesting facts about orthodontics. Enjoy!!!

Did You Know…?

#1 – NASA Wiring?

The nickel titanium in some braces wire was developed by NASA with shape memory properties (meaning it keeps its shape) that are activated by body heat and/or pressure.

#2 – 1728? You’re Kidding!

The first braces were designed in 1728, consisting of a flat piece of metal connected to the teeth by thread. Orthodontic brackets were invented in 1915.

#3 – How Does It Do That?

Some cements used to attach brackets to your teeth include a fluoride-releasing substance.

#4 – Only A Select Few

100% of all orthodontists are dentists. About 6% of all dentists are orthodontists.

#5 – You Won’t Be One Of Them, Right?!

Nearly 25% of orthodontic patients have to get braces again because they didn't wear their retainers!

#6 – Never Too Old

Adults want straight teeth too! In fact, MILLIONS of people over age 18 are currently in orthodontic treatment.

#7 – Myth Breaking

Braces are not magnetic. Braces don’t set off metal detectors. Braces don’t pick up radio transmissions. Braces don’t increase your odds of being hit by lightning.

#8 – Famous Orthodontic Patients

> Check them ALL out! Emma Watson, Tom Cruise, Katy Perry, Prince Harry, Justin Bieber, Gwen Stefani, Drew Barrymore, Dakota Fanning, and more.

Do YOU Know Any Others?

Do you know any interesting orthodontic facts we've missed? Please share them with us in the comments below or on our Facebook page!!!

Toothbrushing Mistake No.1: "Not Using the Right Toothbrush"

Using the right toothbrush to maintain  is important, it allows you to clean hard to reach areas of your mouth therefore minimizing the risks of plague and cavity build up. On the other hand, not using the right toothbrush can have detrimental effects on your oral health since tooth decay is likely to occur with poorly maintained teeth. So the question is; how to choose the right toothbrush?

It’s not an exact science but you should choose appropriately sized brush in relation to the size of your mouth. If you are having a hard time opening your mouth when brushing due to the size of the brush, then it is probably too big, so choose an alternative smaller sized toothbrush.

Small headed toothbrushes can reach the back of the end teeth easily for a thorough cleaning. When choosing a toothbrush, also check if it has soft bristles or hard bristles. Soft bristles are more appropriate for removing debris from the mouth as well as plaque. Hard bristles can damage your gums and cause them to bleed.

The type of toothbrush handle also matters. Choose the one with which you are comfortable just like “when you’re holding a fork whilst eating” says Richard H. Price, DMD (the consumer advisor for the American Dental Association). He also added that the more comfortable your brush is with your mouth, the more likely you are going to use it and use it properly. Lastly, no matter how good a fit your toothbrush is within your mouth, the key to well-maintained teeth is brushing them properly.

If you have any toothbrush or orthodontic concerns, please visit our website, Or call our office below:

Sanborn Orthodontics  4251-F Arendell St.  Morehead City, NC  28557  252-727-0020