Brackets

Brackets are small devices that are bonded (glued) to the surfaces of teeth. Traditional brackets are made of metal. Current orthodontic innovations now include clear brackets. Brackets provide a strong attachment to the tooth which allows the forces of the arch wire to be transmitted to the teeth.

Archwires

Archwires are the main wire that connects all the brackets together on the outside of the teeth. It provides force to move the teeth. Archwires act as a guide or track along which the teeth move. Arch wires are normally changed numereous times during the course of the orthodontic treatment.

O-Rings

O-rings are little elastic rings, also called A-lastics, that are used to attach the arch wire to the brackets. These rings come in standard gray or clear, but also come in a wide variety of colors to make braces more fun. A-lastics are changed at every appointment to maintain good attachment of the arch wire to the bracket. Patients are able to choose and enjoy many different color schemes throughout treatment.

Hooks

Hooks are small, blunt attachments to the brackets that allow the patient to wear elastics from the top to the bottom teeth.

Elastics

Elastics are rubber bands used to provide added pressure to help move the teeth and jaws into better alignment. The patient wears elastics as indicated. With today's advancements in orthodontic materials and techniques, elastics are no less commonly used.