Parts of Braces
Getting braces can be an overwhelming experience. Learning the different parts of braces can even make your head spin. However, learning this information can help you effectively communicate with our orthodontist office in Johns Creek, Georgia. This information can help you ask questions, care for your braces, and be aware of a problem should one occur.
Below you will find a list of the different parts of braces and their brief descriptions.
Archwire
A metal wire that is attached to your brackets to move your teeth.
Bands
A metal ring that is usually placed on your teeth to hold on parts of your braces.
Bracket
Brackets are the small metal or ceramic modules attached to each tooth. They serve as guides to move the teeth and hold the wires.
Buccal Tube
A small metal part that is welded on the outside of a molar band. The molar band contains slots to hold archwires, lip bumpers, facebows, and other things your orthodontist uses to move your teeth.
Chain
A stretchable plastic chain used to hold archwires into brackets and to move teeth.
Elastics
Elastics or rubber bands for braces help move the upper and lower teeth relative to each other, ultimately achieving a better bite. The orthodontic rubber bands are typically effective for correcting overbites, underbites, or other types of alignments of the jaw. They are also useful for moving a tooth out of alignment or to close a space in the mouth.
Invisalign
Invisalign® is a series of clear, removable teeth aligners that both orthodontists and dentists use as an alternative to traditional metal dental braces.
Lingual Arch
A lingual arch is an orthodontic device which connects two molars in the upper or lower dental arch.
Ligating Module
A small plastic piece, shaped like a donut, which is used to hold the archwires in the brackets on your teeth.
Removable Retainer
A gadget that the orthodontist gives you to wear after your braces are removed. The retainer attaches to your upper and/or lower teeth and holds them in the correct position while your jaw hardens and your teeth get strongly attached to your jaw. At first, you wear the retainer 24 hours a day, and then only at night.
Separators
Separators are tiny rubber bands or springs that your orthodontist places between your back teeth. These separators prepare your mouth for braces by creating a small gap between these teeth. This space allows for the placement of a metal band around your molar, which anchors your braces in your mouth.
Parts of Braces with Ricci Orthodontics
Ricci Orthodontics understands that learning the parts of braces can be overwhelming. We work hard to ensure each of our patients understand their braces and their treatment plan. To make an appointment for your first visit, contact Ricci Orthodontics today at (678) 263-8695.