Braces Terminology

Elastic Tie

Small rubber band that is hooked between different points on the appliance to provide pressure to move the teeth.

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Loop in Archwire

Frequently used for closing space left by an extraction. Many archwires don't have a loop.

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Archwire

The main wire that acts as a track to guide the teeth along. It's changed periodically throughout treatment, as teeth move to their new positions.

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Bracket

Small attachment that holds the archwire in place. Most often, a bracket is cemented directly onto the tooth's surface, eliminating the need for a band.

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Headgear Tube

Round, hollow attachment on the back bands. The inner bow of the headgear fits into it.

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Coil Spring

Fits between brackets and over archwire to open space between teeth.

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Tie Wire

Fine wire that is twisted around the bracket to hold the archwire in place.

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Band

A thin ring of metal fitted around a tooth and cemented in place. The band provides a way to attach the brackets to the tooth.

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Hook

Welded or removable arm to which elastics (rubber bands) are attached.

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Elastic (Rubber Band)

Small rubber band that is hooked between different points on the appliance to provide pressure to move the teeth.