As our South Coast Orthodontics clinic is located at 57 Railway Street in Corrimal, I frequently drive past Bulli High School, Keira High School and Corrimal High School as part of my daily commute, fitness regime and errands around the Illawarra.
Every once in a while, I’ll reminisce about my own school days in Bowral at New South Wales’ Southern Highlands, and other times I’d think about how different life would be had I chosen an alternative career, such as a teacher.
I hold tremendous respect for people in the education industry, and I regularly receive and gladly accept invitations to speak at schools around the Illawarra, particularly for career days, where I explain what do for a living.
Before I dive into deep discussions with the students, I provide historical context into the world of orthodontics so they know they’ll be joining a line of women and men that dates back to Ancient Greece and Ancient Egypt. Here are some interesting facts:
1. Ancient Beginnings: Orthodontic treatment is not a modern invention. In fact, evidence of orthodontic practices dates back to 1000 BC in ancient civilisations such as Greece. Archaeologists also discovered mummies in ancient Egypt with metal bands wrapped around their teeth, indicating a primitive form of orthodontic treatment thousands of years ago.
2. In 1728, Pierre Fauchard, known as the “Father of Modern Dentistry,” published “The Surgeon Dentist,” which included information on orthodontic techniques such as braces and appliances. Fauchard is credited with pioneering the use of braces made of a flat strip of metal connected to the teeth by thread. This marked the beginning of modern orthodontic techniques.
3. In the 19th century, Norman Kingsley published “Oral Deformities”, which is now credited as one of the first works to begin systematically documenting orthodontics. Kingsley was one of the early users of extraoral force to correct protruding teeth. Also in the 19th century, Edward Angle, known as the “Father of Modern Orthodontics,” established the first orthodontic school and developed the foundation for modern orthodontic techniques and principles.
4. In the early 20th century, advancements in orthodontics included the development of the first braces made of bands, wires, and brackets by Edward Angle and the introduction of the cephalometric analysis for orthodontic treatment planning.
5. In the 1950s, the development of the Begg Technique by Dr. P. Raymond Begg revolutionised orthodontic treatment by introducing the concept of light, continuous forces for tooth movement.
6. In the 1960s, a colourful trend emerged in orthodontics by offering patients the option to choose coloured bands for their braces, adding a fun and personalised touch to orthodontic treatment. Patients could express their individuality by selecting vibrant hues for their braces.
7. In the 1970s, the introduction of stainless steel brackets and wires revolutionised orthodontic treatment, making it more efficient and less visible.
8. The development of lingual braces in the 1970s provided an alternative for patients who preferred a more discreet orthodontic treatment option by placing the brackets and wires on the back of the teeth.
9. The introduction of clear ceramic braces in the 1980s provided another aesthetic option for patients seeking orthodontic treatment with less noticeable appliances.
10. In the 1980s, the introduction of self-ligating brackets, which do not require elastic ligatures, improved the efficiency of orthodontic treatment by reducing friction and allowing for more precise tooth movement.
11. Braces Among Celebrities: Braces are not just for the average person – even celebrities have embraced orthodontic treatment. Stars like Tom Cruise, Emma Watson, and Prince Harry have proudly sported braces, proving that achieving a straighter smile is a universal goal, regardless of fame.
12. In the 1990s, the use of clear aligners, such as Invisalign, became popular as an alternative to traditional braces for orthodontic treatment.
13. In the 2000s, the use of temporary anchorage devices (TADs) in orthodontics became popular, providing orthodontists with a new tool to control tooth movement and achieve more complex treatment outcomes.
14. In recent years, advancements in digital technology, such as 3D imaging and computer-aided treatment planning, have further improved the precision and effectiveness of orthodontic treatment.
15. In recent years, research in orthodontics has focused on the development of accelerated orthodontic techniques, such as vibration devices and low-level laser therapy, to shorten treatment times and improve patient comfort.
16. The integration of orthodontics with digital technologies, such as virtual treatment planning software and 3D printing, has transformed the way orthodontic treatment is planned and delivered, leading to more personalised and efficient care for patients.
17. In the field of orthodontic research, the study of genetics and orthodontics has advanced our understanding of the genetic factors that influence craniofacial development and the risk of malocclusions.
18. Unity in the Orthodontic Community: Orthodontists collaborate with dentists, oral surgeons, and other specialists to deliver comprehensive care to patients. The orthodontic community is built on a foundation of support and expertise, working together to enhance smiles and transform lives through orthodontic treatment.
19. The establishment of orthodontic specialty organisations, such as the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) and the European Orthodontic Society (EOS), has promoted education, research, and collaboration among orthodontic professionals worldwide.
20. In recent years, the focus on interdisciplinary orthodontic treatment has grown, with orthodontists working closely with other dental specialists, such as oral surgeons and periodontists, to achieve comprehensive treatment outcomes for patients with complex dental issues.
I hope you now have an appreciation of the rich history and tapestry of my chosen career.
Yours sincerely,
Dr Kamal Ahmed
P.S How was the Roman Empire cut in half? With a pair of caesars.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Ancient orthodontics can be traced back to the early civilisations of Egypt, Greece, and Rome. Archaeological evidence suggests that various forms of dental braces and appliances were used as far back as 400-300 BC. This is over 2,500 years before the establishment of South Coast Orthodontics at Corrimal.
2. How were orthodontic treatments performed in ancient times?
In ancient times, orthodontic treatments were often carried out using materials such as gold wire, catgut (a type of cord made from animal intestines), and even pieces of wood or ivory. These materials were used to apply pressure to the teeth and gradually move them into a more desirable position. I know what you’re thinking… Meow!
3. What were some of the common orthodontic issues faced by people in ancient times?
Common orthodontic issues in ancient times included crowded or misaligned teeth, protruding teeth, and gaps between teeth. These issues were often treated using methods such as dental braces, tooth extraction, and filing down teeth to create a more even alignment. Imagine being an orthodontist for a pharaoh? One error, and I’d go from being a daddy to a mummy.
