We are pleased to offer information about many common orthodontic terms used by Dr. Joseph Basile and our team at Prior Lake Orthodontics in Prior Lake, Minnesota
- Archwire
A wire applied to two or more teeth through fixed attachments to cause or guide orthodontic tooth movement. A wire used as a source of force to direct teeth to move in desired directions.
- Ball Hook
Used to attach elastics to braces.
- Bracket/Band (Orthodontic)
A thin metal ring that is usually made of stainless steel and serves to secure orthodontic appliances to a tooth. The band, with orthodontic appliances welded or soldered to it, is closely adapted to fit the contours of the tooth and then cemented into place.
- Coil Spring
A small spring that is placed around the arch wire to either maintain or increase the space between teeth.
- Elastic/Rubber Band
A small rubber band used to move teeth in the prescribed direction.
- Gingiva
Soft tissue around and between the teeth. This tissue consists of a fibrous tissue that is continuous with the periodontal ligament, and a mucosal that is continuous with the lining of the mouth.
- Hygiene
The practice of measures designed to attain and preserve oral health. These actions help keep your teeth, jaw bone, and gums clean and healthy.
- Molar Hook
A hook that is soldered to the band to serve as a place to hook your elastics to the molar teeth.
- Ligature/Steel Tie
A tie used to secure individual teeth to an orthodontic arch wire, typically made of wire or elastic material. A small steel wire is tied to the bracket to secure the arch wire to the bracket. Ligature ties are also used to secure brackets together.
- Power Chain
Two or more gray or clear elastic chains used to move teeth toward each other.