Braces May Look Simple but they Have Many Parts
Elastic Tie
Tiny rubber band that fits around the bracket to hold the archwire in place.
Loop in Archwire
Typically used for closing space left by and extraction. Many archwires don't have a loop.
Bracket
The main wire that acts as a track to guide the teeth along. It's changed periodically throughout treatment as teeth move to their new position.
Headgear Tube
Round, hollow attachment on the back bands. The inner bow of the headgear fits into it.
Coil Spring
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 into 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.
Elastic (Rubber Band)
Small rubber band that is hooked between different points on the appliance to provide pressure to move the teeth.
