Orthodontist in Short Pump | Even Mummies Wear Braces: A Look at Ancient Orthodontics

November 25, 2019

Richmond VA Orthodontist | Even Mummies Wear Braces: A Look at Ancient Orthodontics

It’s natural that your braces may seem annoying, or even painful at times. While they definitely take some getting used to, you should know just how far braces have come since teeth straightening technology began in Ancient Egypt. That’s right, Egyptian mummies have been found with metal bands wrapped around their teeth. Instead of wire or elastic, the Egyptians used a natural cord made out of animal intestines called catgut to tighten the metal. But that’s far from the strangest technique humans have used to straighten their teeth.

The Ancient Greeks and Romans were also concerned with creating straighter smiles. A Roman writer called Pliny the Elder, who is responsible for the famous line “home is where the heart is,” recommended pushing on teeth with your fingers and filing them down regularly.

In the 18th century, a French man named Pierre Fauchard, often referred to as the Father of Dentistry, began experimenting. Using a giant pair of metal tweezers called forceps, he would realign teeth by hand and tie them together so they would stay in place while healing- all without any modern anesthesia. Thankfully times have changed.

Braces are advancing faster than ever as the use of plastics and 3D printers begins to develop. Technology such as plastic aligners, lingual braces and retainers help straighten teeth with ease, not to mention much less painfully.

While braces may not be your favorite accessory, we want to ensure that you have as comfortable a process as possible. Contact our office to schedule your next appointment.

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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