Basic Components
Please refer to the
diagram at the right and
the explanations below
for a basic understanding
of the components used in
orthodontic treatment.
If you are having an emergency situation, this diagram can be helpful in communicating with our office about the orthodontic appliance.
You can click on any of the text in the diagram above to be taken directly to the description of the component.
Bonded Brackets
Brackets are bonded or "glued" directly to your tooth and cover less area than bands. Instead of putting bands on all the teeth to hold the brackets in place, we use bonded brackets on most of the teeth whenever possible. (return to top)
Bands
These are thin bands of metal, carefully fitted to the tooth, and then cemented in place. They provide a way to grasp and control each individual tooth. Bands are generally used only on the molars when needed for extra strength. (return to top)
Archwire
This is the main wire that fits into the brackets or other attachments on the outside of your teeth. This is fastened to your brackets by ligatures. The archwire acts as a guide or track along which the teeth are moved. (return to top)
Headgear Tube
The headgear fits into the large tube on the posterior molars.
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Elastics
These provide a force that help teeth move, usually employing one arch (upper or lower) or group that moves against the other teeth. (return to top)
Tie Wires or Steel Ligatures
These are small wires that fasten your archwire to the brackets. They are twisted, leaving a small "pigtail," or twisted wire, which is then tucked under the archwire. Sometimes, during eating or brushing, these may become bent outward. If this happens, push them back under the archwire with a pencil eraser or Q tip.
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Ligatures or Modules
Individual elastomeric ties. These are used to fasten the wires into the brackets (tightening) and come in many designer colors. You may choose new colors at each appointment, because the ligatures are usually changed at each visit.(return to top)
11233 Nall Avenue, Suite 140 | Leawood, KS 66211 | (913) 491-6680
702 East Ohio Street | Clinton, MO 64735 | (660) 885-6944
