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Braces
Braces are fixed orthodontic appliances consisting of brackets, bands, and wires.
Brackets are the part of the braces that attach to the teeth; they are the handles that help control movement of the teeth. Brackets can be made of high-grade stainless steel, ceramic, plastic, or a combination of these materials. Ceramic brackets are typically tooth-colored and are generally used by patients who want to minimize the visibility of their braces.
Bands are stainless steel “rings” that are usually placed on molar teeth. Bands are a common component of most orthodontic treatment and are often used in the fabrication of palate expanders.
Braces require a wire that connects the brackets, shapes the dental arch, and provides the forces to properly direct the movement of teeth. The interaction of brackets and wires enables the orthodontist to have three-dimensional control over tooth movement.
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