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An orthodontic appliance is a very precise, carefully engineered tooth-moving machine made of tiny parts. The orthodontist will guide the teeth into a correct position by adjusting the braces. To help understand what is happening during treatment, you should learn about the parts of the braces. If you have a problem with your braces, refer to this diagram so you can accurately describe the problem when you call our office.
1.BANDS Bands are a ring of metal, which fit around the back teeth (molars and sometimes premolars). Each tooth has its own shape and size. The bands are selected from a range of sizes. The aim is to select the tightest fitting band. The bands are sealed in position using a dental cement (like glue) containing fluoride to prevent any decalcification during treatment.
2.BRACKETS The part that holds the archwire against each tooth. The archwire fits into a slot in the bracket. Brackets may be attached directly to each tooth or to a band.
3.BONDED Small brackets are usually bonded or glued on the front teeth and sometimes the back teeth. During this procedure the lips are held out of the way with plastic retractors similar to those used when the teeth were photographed. During this procedure the teeth must be kept dry.
4.ARCHWIRES The main wires or arch wires are shaped specifically to fit around the arch into the bracket slots. Teeth move from the pressure that is applied by the braces. That pressure comes from the archwire, which guides the direction of movement. Note that the archwire is held in place by a series of small rubber rings that ties the archwire into the bracket. ANY ADDITIONAL BENDS CAUSED BY LACK OF CARE IN EATING MAY ALLOW THE WRONG TEETH TO MOVE.
5.ELASTICS A tiny rubber ring that ties the archwire into the bracket. -Or- LIGATURE WIRE A tiny wire that ties the archwire into the bracket.
6.HOOKS Small attachments on the brackets used to attach elastics (rubber bands).
7.COIL SPRING This spring fits between brackets and over the archwire.
8. HEADGEAR TUBE The tube on the bracket attached to the band cemented |
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