Now that you have your new braces, you might still be learning the names of all the gizmos and gadgets attached to your teeth. It might not be a bad idea right now to familiarize yourself with some of the terms your dentist or orthodontist will use. If you have a problem, it's much better (especially over the telephone!) to be able to name the appliance that just broke or bent or flew out of your mouth. Here are some terms to get you started, and we'll give you a few more in future issues, too.

Impressions:

In order to determine the correct treatment for you, your dentist or orthodontist may have made an impression of your mouth. A soft, gum-like material is placed into small trays that fit over your upper and lower teeth. It takes just a few minutes to create a 3-D picture of your teeth, and the doctor can see (and keep) a lifesize picture of your teeth.

Appliances:

These are all the parts of the braces: bands, archwires, brackets, etc.

Separators:

Before your braces were "installed," you may have had separators, small elastic rings, placed between your teeth. The purpose of separators is to make enough room for the braces to be put on.

Bands:

The bands are small, metal rings that are cemented (or bonded) right on to your teeth. These serve as the little "handles" that move your teeth or hold them in place. Sometimes, the bands break off, but don't panic. A new band can be put back on.

Brackets:

 These are the small attachments soldered (or welded) on to the band. The placement of the brackets is very important, because it determines which way the teeth are going to move.

Archwire:

 This is the main wire that fits into the bracket around the outside of your teeth. The archwire provides a "track" that your teeth will follow to move into place. If one breaks, you should have it fixed before waiting until your next visit. Sometimes, the archwire pops out of the back, but you might be able to re-insert it into the back tube.

Tiewires and Ties:

Tiewires are used to hold the archwire to the bracket. They are wrapped around, twisted, and bent backward under the archwire. Brushing or eating can cause the wire to bend outward, but if that happens, just push it back under the archwire. Ties are the rubber rings (usually colorful!) and are also used to hold the archwire to the bracket. They are changed during each appointment.

Disclaimer:

The information in this newsletter is only for the purpose of providing you with information regarding your orthodontic care and treatment. It is not intended to offer any medical or dental advice. Please contact your own dentist or orthodontist for treatment, appliances, or instructions that are right for you.