The origins and evolution of fixed orthodontic appliances

Although orthodontics became a recognised dental specialty only in the 1880s, the concept of aligning teeth with fixed appliances dates back to around 1000 BC.

Evidence gathered from Egyptian mummies shows that ancient civilisations fitted appliances to teeth, presumably to correct malocclusions. Archaeologists have discovered several mummies with simple metal bands wrapped around individual teeth, indicating that the ancient Egyptians knew that pressure could be used to move teeth over a period of time.

This article examines how these early ideas evolved to become the fixed orthodontic appliances of today.

The earliest evidence of appliances being used to straighten teeth is from around 1000 BC (Weinberger, 1934). The Etruscans, an ancient civilisation predating the Romans, buried their dead with appliances that were used to maintain space and prevent collapse of the dentition (Guerini, 1909).