Orthodontist in Short Pump VA | 6 Things You Never Knew About Braces

January 4, 2017

Orthodontist in Richmond

Richmond Orthodontist

The desire for straighter teeth goes back thousands of years. We’ve come a long way in improving our smiles. Braces have evolved over time to become more comfortable and efficient. Here are six things you probably never knew about braces.

  1. Ancient Egyptians May Have Wanted Straighter Teeth

Archaeologists have found mummies with cords wound around their teeth, likely to straighten them. What were these ancient braces made from? Animal intestines. Thankfully, our orthodontist has more modern materials to work with!

  1. You’re Not Alone

An estimated 4 million people in the US currently are wearing braces or another device to correct their teeth. That’s a little more than the number of people living in Los Angeles.

  1. Getting Braces is a Little Like Rocket Science

NASA scientists were looking for a flexible material for solar panels and turned to a metal called nitinol 60. As nitinol heats up, it reverts to its original shape. Today, nitinol is used in braces. The heat from your mouth makes the metal return to its original shape, helping guide your teeth to where they should be.

  1. Wear Your Retainer!

Did you know that an estimated 25% of braces wearers neglect to wear their retainer? Many end up needing a second set of braces. Don’t be one of the 25%. Wear your retainer for lasting results and a perfect smile.

  1. Braces Are Older Than America

If you consider 1776 to be the birth year of America, braces have another 48 years on the United States. The first modern braces were developed in 1728 by Pierre Fauchard. He used flat metal brackets and connected the teeth using thread.

  1. Busting Braces Myths

You don’t have a greater chance of being struck by lightning when wearing braces. Your braces also can’t interfere with any radio signals. Take some comfort in knowing not everything you’ve heard about braces holds true.

Though braces have been around for hundreds of years, today’s braces are more efficient and comfortable than in the past. Our experienced orthodontic team will help you get the results you desire. If you are ready for your perfect smile, set up a consultation with us today.

For more information about braces or to schedule your orthodontic consultation, please contact our office.

Transform your smile!

Our 5-Star Experience

Check out what our patients are saying about their 5-star experience with our amazing team!

Our 5-Star Experience
  • My daughter Tyler is currently a patient. She has had the greatest experience. Everyone has been very nice and informative.

    Tonia Avatar Tonia

    The best always kind very professional doctors check and make sure everything is good with your teeth this office is a gem!

    Lori Piscataway Avatar Lori Piscataway

    I recently visited Horsey Orthodontics and was impressed by their warm atmosphere and friendly staff. They take patient opinions seriously, even from kids, making the experience comfortable for everyone. Highly... read more

    Mitchell Pessoa Avatar Mitchell Pessoa
  • Absolutely enjoy every visit. The employees are very friendly, there is always a short waiting time, and they give the girls incentives; which they love by the way!

    carlisa childress Avatar carlisa childress

    Have only been with Horsey for a short amount of time but all of the staff are knowledgeable, kind, and punctual. They've made a new situation very stress free.

    Cami Poss Avatar Cami Poss

    My daughter has absolutely loved going to horsey orthodontics. She says they are so nice, they are like family! They are patient, good with kids, and a dippin dots after... read more

    Sylvia Clay Avatar Sylvia Clay
  • Literally the best staff ever! From the initial visit at the adult center to the Henrico location I felt extremely comfortable. The pricing was broken down and explained throughly. I... read more

    Kay H. Avatar Kay H.

    I love this orthodontist. They’re so understanding! They make sure your needs are met & that you’re satisfied. I’m so glad I’m apart of horsey orthodontist.

    Tianna Pope Avatar Tianna Pope

    Great place for your orthodontic needs. Great staff. Everyone is welcoming & answer all questions you have

    Withrow Stockton Avatar Withrow Stockton
  • I would highly recommend Horsey Orthodontics to family and friends! Staffing was friendly and answered all questions and was very helpful. They even gave me a gift bag which was... read more

    Zykirria Hill Avatar Zykirria Hill

    Great staff and very friendly to work with. Easy in and out in no time. I have referred 2 friends already.

    rhonda agnew Avatar rhonda agnew

    My son, Kristian W is 16 and gets his braces here. The team from the front desk to the techs, to the orthodontist are all super friendly and super... read more

    Carmen Daniel Avatar Carmen Daniel
  • My experience with Horsey has been absolutely amazing. All the employees are super sweet and friendly. Every time I go, I’m so excited to pick out new colors and play... read more

    Natalia McNair Avatar Natalia McNair

    I have been with Horsey Orthodontist as a patient for 2 years. All the Doctors and staff have always been so welcoming. I have auto immune health conditions and they... read more

    Sandra Layton Avatar Sandra Layton

    My son, Kristian W is 16 and gets his braces here. The team from the front desk to the techs, to the orthodontist are all super friendly and super... read more

    Carmen Daniel Avatar Carmen Daniel

Where To Find Us

If you’re ready for a smile that makes you more confident, then you’ve found the right team here at Horsey Orthodontics!

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Contact Hours
Monday 8:00am – 4:30pm
Tuesday 8:00am – 4:30pm
Wednesday 8:00am – 4:30pm
Thursday 8:00am – 4:30pm
Friday 9:00am – 2:00pm