Parts of the Braces Explained: The How and What are Those of Orthodontics
Braces are a common orthodontic treatment used to straighten and align teeth. They consist of several different parts that work together to apply pressure to the teeth, gradually moving them into the desired position. Here is a table of definitions to refer back to through out your time in braces. I will explain each of these in detail further.
Archwire: a thin, metal wire that runs through the brackets on the teeth and applies pressure to move them.
Elastic tie (also known as "o-ring" or "ligature"): a small rubber band that is placed over the bracket and the archwire, holding them in place.
Brackets: small, metal or ceramic squares that are attached to each tooth, with a slot for the archwire to run through.
Bands: metal rings that are placed around the back teeth, providing extra support for the brackets.
Coil spring: a small, coiled wire that is placed between the archwire and the bracket on certain teeth to apply gentle pressure to help move the teeth into the desired position.
Ligature wire: a thin wire that is used in place of elastic ties on certain types of brackets.
Power Chain: a series of small elastic bands that are connected together, placed over the brackets and archwire to apply extra pressure to the teeth.
Rubber bands: are used to apply extra force to the teeth, usually used in conjunction with braces to help move the jaw into the correct position.
One of the main parts of braces is the archwire. This thin, metal wire runs through the brackets on the teeth and applies pressure to move them. The archwire is typically made of stainless steel or a shape-memory alloy, such as nickel-titanium. It is bent into the desired shape by the orthodontist and then inserted into the brackets. The archwire is adjusted periodically throughout treatment to continue applying pressure and moving the teeth.
Another important part of braces is the elastic tie, also known as an “o-ring” or “ligature.” This small rubber band is placed over the bracket and the archwire, holding them in place. Elastic ties come in different colors and can be changed at each appointment to give patients a fun way to personalize their braces.
In addition to the archwire and elastic tie, braces also consist of brackets and bands. Brackets are small, metal or ceramic squares that are attached to each tooth. They have a slot for the archwire to run through. Bands are metal rings that are placed around the back teeth, providing extra support for the brackets.
n addition to the archwire and elastic tie, there are other parts of braces that also play important roles in moving teeth into the desired position.
One of these parts is the coil spring. This small, coiled wire is placed between the archwire and the bracket on certain teeth. It applies gentle pressure to help move the teeth into the desired position. Coil springs can be used to help close gaps between teeth or to create more space for crowded teeth.
Another part of braces is the ligature wire. This thin wire is used in place of elastic ties on certain types of brackets. It is bent around the bracket and the archwire to hold them in place. Ligature wires are often used on self-ligating brackets, which do not require elastic ties.
Another important part of braces is the power chain. Power chains are a series of small elastic bands that are connected together. They are placed over the brackets and archwire to apply extra pressure to the teeth, helping to move them into the desired position. Power chains can be used to help close gaps between teeth or to correct bite problems.
Finally, some orthodontists also use rubber bands to apply extra force to the teeth. They are usually used in conjunction with braces to help move the jaw into the correct position. Rubber bands are placed between the upper and lower braces, and are worn all the time.
Overall, the archwire, elastic tie, coil spring, ligature wire, power chain, and rubber bands are all important parts of braces that work together to move teeth into the desired position. They are adjusted periodically throughout treatment to continue applying pressure and moving the teeth. With proper care and regular adjustments, braces can effectively straighten and align teeth for a beautiful, healthy smile.