ELASTIC TIE
Small Rubber band that is hooked between different points on the appliance to provide pressure to move the teeth.
ARCHWIRE
The main wire that acts as a track to guide the teeth along. It’s changed periodically throughout treatment.
BRACKET
Small attachment that holds the archwire in place. Most often, a bracket is cemented directly onto the tooth’s surface, eliminating the need for a band.
TIE WIRE
Fine wire that is twisted around the bracket to hold the archwire in place.
COIL SPRING
Fits between brackets and over archwire to open space between teeth.
BAND
A thin ring of metal fitted around a tooth and cemented in 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.