Orthodontics truly began developing in the 18th and 19th centuries. In 1669, French dentist Pierre Fauchard, who is often credited with inventing modern orthodontics, published a book entitled "The Surgeon Dentist" on methods of straightening teeth.

When were braces popular?

Stainless steel became more commonplace in the 1950s, but braces still wrapped all the way around teeth until the 1970s. Since then, there have been even more innovations in the orthodontic field, including lingual braces (which go on the inside of teeth) and invisalign treatments.

Were there braces in the 1800s?

Orthodontic braces weren't invented until the early 1800s, but people's preoccupation with straight teeth, and/or proper jaw alignment dates back to the time of the ancient Egyptians.