Orthodontic Glossary

A-Ties- Lastometric rings that secure the arch wire to the brackets.
Arch Wire- The larger horizontal wire that is in contact with each individual bracket along the arch form.
Band- A thin stainless steel ring which serves to secure orthodontic attachments to a tooth. The band, which has orthodontic attachments welded to it, is closely formed to fit the contours of the tooth and is then cemented into place.
Braces- The collection of all bands and brackets.
Bracket- An orthodontic attachment that is secured to a tooth by bonding for the purpose of holding an arch wire.
Ceramic Bracket- Crystalline aluminum tooth-shade or clear synthetic brackets that are aesthetically more appealing than traditional metal brackets.
Cross bite- A bite in which the upper back teeth fit inside the lower back teeth.
Crowding- Dental misalignment caused by inadequate space for the teeth.
Elastics (rubber bands)—Used to move teeth in a prescribed direction. They are available in numerous colors.
Expander- An orthodontic appliance used to widen the roof of the mouth, allowing room for crowded teeth to grow naturally and/or expand the upper jaw to more closely fit the lower jaw.
Headgear- A generic term for extra-oral traction (attached around the back side of the head) for growth modification, tooth movement, and anchorage.
Herbst Appliance- A fixed or removable appliance designed specifically for the orthopedic development of the lower jaw.
Maxillary- Being of or pertaining to the upper jaw. May be used to describe the teeth, dental restorations, orthodontic appliances, or facial structures.
Overbite- Vertical overlapping of the upper teeth over the lower teeth.
Overjet- The horizontal overlapping of the upper teeth over the lower teeth.
Retainer- Any orthodontic appliance, fixed or removable, used to maintain the position of the teeth following corrective treatment.
Retention- The passive treatment period following active orthodontic correction during which retaining appliances may be used.
Spacers- Small elastic disks inserted between the back molars to make space for the placement of bands. Spacers are usually inserted one week before the braces are to be put on.
Underbite- When the lower teeth protrude ahead of the upper teeth.

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