Parts of Braces

1. Band

A thin ring of metal fitted around a tooth and cemented in place. The band has a bracket attached to it. The bands are usually used on the back piece (molars and pre-molars).

2. Brackets

Small squares that hold the archwire in place. Brackets are cemented directly onto the tooth’s surface. This practice eliminates the need for a band.

3. Archwire

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.

4. Ligature Wires

Fine wires that are twisted around each bracket to hold the archwire in place. Sometimes they also have a hook from which rubber bands are attached.

5. Elastic Ligatures

Tiny elastics that are twisted around each bracket to hold the archwire in place. Available in a variety of colors.

6. Rubber Bands

Small rubber bands of various sizes that are hooked between different points on the appliance to provide pressure to move the teeth, or bite.

7. Headgear Tubes

Round, hollow attachments on the back bands. The inner bow of the headgear fits into them.

8. Buccal Tubes

Hollow attachments, also on back bands, which hold the archwires in place.

9. Elastic Chain

Elastic ligatures that are connected to form small rubber chain from tooth to tooth. This moves the teeth. Available in a variety of colors.