Braces Diagram

Bracket

The bracket is an orthodontic attachment secured to a tooth for the purpose of attaching an arch wire. Normally the bracket is cemented directly onto the tooth, which elminates the need for a band. (Brackets with an attached arch wire are parts that “make” the appliance or brace.)

Archwire

The archwire is a metal wire which is attached to your brackets to move your teeth. The archwire is changed throughout your treatment as the teeth move to different positions.

Elastic Rubber Band

An elastic is a small rubber band that is attached at two points between the top and bottom teeth. The elastic adds pressure to move the teeth.

Band

A band is a thin metal ring, usually stainless steel, which serves to secure orthodontic attachments to a tooth. The band is closely adapted to fit the contours of the tooth and is cemented into place.

Coil Spring

The Coil Spring fits between brackets and over the arch wire to widen spaces between teeth.

Elastic Tie

The Elastic tie or rubber band is the tiny rubber band that fits around the bracket and holds the archwire in place. Changing the colors of your elastic ties can give your braces a fresh new look!

Headgear Tube

The headgear tube is a round, hollow attachment where the inner bow of the headgear is inserted.

Hook

A hook is either welded or temporarily attached to the bracket. The hook holds the elastic in place.

Loop

A loop is created in your archwire to typically close spacing between teeth that has been cause by an extraction. Most archwires do not need loops.

Tie Wire

A tie wire is a thin piece of wire that is wrapped around the bracket to hold the archwire in place.