Orthodontic treatment used to be considered "cosmetic", but today, dentists and patients alike realize that orthodontic treatment may be a necessity. Correcting misaligned teeth can often prevent a lifetime of periodontal problems and severe tooth wear, and even premature tooth loss! - See more at: http://www.davidevansdds.com/history_of_braces.php#sthash.GIwpCbs2.dpuf