What Are the Different Parts of Braces?
Elastic Tie
Small rubber band that fits around the bracket to hold the archwire in place.
Archwire
The main metal wire that is attached to your brackets to move your teeth. Arch wire adjustments exert pressure on the teeth and are responsible for the ongoing repositioning of teeth toward proper alignment. The wire is changed often during the treatment process as teeth move to their new positions.
Elastic (Rubber Band)
Small rubber band that is hooked between different points on the appliance to provide pressure to move the teeth.
Brackets
Small square-shaped pieces which hold and support the archwire in place. Brackets may be attached to an orthodontic band or cemented directly to the tooth surface.
Headgear Tube
Round, hollow attachment on the back bands. The inner bow of the headgear fits into it.
Coil Spring
This fits between brackets and over archwire to open space between teeth.
Tie Wire
Fine wire that is twisted around the bracket to hold the archwire in place.
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.
Hook
Welded or removable arm to which elastics (rubber bands) are attached.
Hope this helps! Give us a call if you have any questions!