According to the American Association of Orthodontics, roughly 4 million people have braces at this very moment. Plus, countless more have undergone orthodontic treatment in the past. At this point, it’s basically a rite of passage for teens and young adults! So, it’s not surprising that some of the most iconic characters have adorned the metal brackets and wires over the years. If you’re interested, here are four iconic braces moments in pop culture.
1. Darla in Finding Nemo
In 2003, Finding Nemo debuted. Not only did it make more than $335 million in its original theatrical run, but there have been other movies in the franchise, rides made at amusement parks featuring the beloved characters, and endless merchandise sold across the globe. So, it’s safe to say that it has been a big part of pop culture over the last two decades. Since the main nemesis (a young, pigtail-wearing, fish-loving girl) is in the middle of orthodontic treatment, braces had a big moment in pop culture as well!
2. Murray in Clueless
The movie Clueless brings a lot of nostalgia for the late 90s and early 2000s. Plus, its star-studded cast included everyone from Alicia Silverstone and Paul Rudd to Donald Faison! Although Donald Faison’s most popular role is arguably Turk in the TV show Scrubs, he also plays one of the main characters in this fashion-centered flick. Even with a mouthful of metal, he’s still one of the most popular kids on campus!
3. Josie Geller in Never Been Kissed
Drew Barrymore has had an extremely successful acting career, and she’s brought countless beloved characters to life on screen. In the movie Never Been Kissed, she plays Josie Geller, who goes back to high school undercover for a story. One of the most memorable scenes is a flashback to her 80s prom, where she has a puffy-sleeved dress, a side ponytail, and, of course, braces.
4. Ted in There’s Something About Mary
There’s Something About Mary is a comedy with a star-studded cast, including Ben Stiller, Cameron Diaz, and Matt Dillon. The movie begins with Ben Stiller’s character (Ted) back in high school, where he supports long hair, a less than stylish wardrobe, and braces. When describing Ted, Mary (Cameron Diaz’s character) says, “He had this huge mouth full of metal. You know how I like braces.” So, he ended up doing alright!
About the Doctor
Dr. Jamie Moon’s studies began at the University of Oregon and the Columbia University School of Dental Medicine. After graduating in 2007, she completed a post-graduate program in Orthodontics and a 3-year residency in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics. If that wasn’t impressive enough, her dedication, commitment, and talent have resulted in her becoming a Board-Certified Orthodontist as well! So, if you are interested in straightening your teeth or have a question about life with braces, she’s the professional to ask. To schedule an appointment, visit our website or call (508) 755-2207.