When you first get traditional braces, it can be hard to follow what your dentist is saying. After all, there are so many parts to braces that it gets a bit confusing. Knowing all the parts of traditional braces can make it a lot easier to follow along with your dentist at your appointments and understand how your treatment is going. That’s why your dentist has put together this guide to help you learn all the different parts of braces and how they work to straighten your teeth.
Brackets
Small, square-shaped pieces that are attached to the surface of the teeth. Each bracket has a slot designed to hold and support the arch wire. Some brackets even have hooks that are used to attach rubber bands.
Arch Wire
A metal wire that threads through the brackets and lines the front of the teeth. The arch wire is responsible for shifting the teeth into place. At your regular appointments, your dentist will tighten and adjust the arch wire as needed.
Bands
Rings that fit around the back teeth, or the molars. They are held in position with dental cement, and work to secure the arch wire in place in the back teeth.
Hooks
Special attachments that are secured onto brackets to allow the placement of elastics.
Elastics
Removable rubber bands that are attached to the bracket hooks and connect the upper and lower teeth. The pull of the elastics applies a gentle force that corrects bite alignment issues such as overbite and underbite.
Coil Springs
Small springs that fit over the arch wire and between the brackets. It exerts a pressure that opens up space between teeth to correct problems like overcrowding.
Power Chains
Elastic or wire rings that are linked together to form a continuous band between teeth. They are used to narrow spaces or prevent spaces between teeth from opening up, correcting gapped teeth. They are replaced during every adjustment.
Now that you understand a little bit more about your traditional braces, it should be much easier to follow along at your next appointment.
About the Author
Dr. Dalia Georgy obtained her doctorate from the University of Oklahoma. In addition to being a general dentist with more than 200 continuing education credit hours to her name, she has also undergone extensive specialty training in traditional braces. If you or your child are in need of braces in the Glenpool, OK community, don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Georgy at (918) 201-1414.