Glossary
Archwire
A wire attached to the braces and fastened to two or more teeth which is capable of causing or guiding tooth movement.

Band (orthodontic)
A thin metal ring, usually stainless steel, which serves to secure orthodontic attachments to a tooth. The band, with orthodontic attachment welded or soldered to it, is closely adapted to fit the contours of the tooth and then cemented into place.

Bracket
An orthodontic attachment that is secured to a tooth (either by bonding or banding) for the purpose of engaging an arch wire. Brackets can be fabricated from metal, ceramic, or plastic.

Ceramic Brackets
Crystalline alumina tooth-shade or clear synthetic sapphire brackets that are aesthetically more attractive than conventional metal attachment.

Crowding
Dental misalignment caused by inadequate space for the teeth.

Debanding
The removal of cemented orthodontic bands and brackets.

Distal Jet
Appliance which redirects teeth to gain space.

Elastics (rubber bands)
Used to move teeth in a specific direction

Gingiva
The tissue that surrounds the teeth, commonly called "gums"

Imaging
The process of acquiring representations of structures in either two or three dimensions.

Lingual
Of or pertaining to the tongue. A term used to describe surfaces and directions toward the tongue.

Lingual Appliances
Orthodontic appliances fixed to the lingual surface of the teeth.

Maxillary
Of or pertaining to the upper jaw. May be used to describe teeth, dental restorations, orthodontic appliances, or facial structures.

OrthoClear
Advanced way to straighten teeth and improve smiles by using plastic aligners.

Orthodontist
A dental specialist who has completed an advanced post-doctoral course, accredited by the American Dental Association, of at least two a years in the special area of orthodontics.

Orthognathic Surgery
Surgery to alter relationships of teeth and/or supporting bones, usually accomplished in conjunction with orthodontic therapy.

Overbite
Vertical overlapping of upper teeth over lower teeth

Radiograph
A permanent image, typically on film, but today most are digital. Usually called an x-ray.

Rapid Palatal Expander (RPE)
Appliance which is cemented to four teeth on the upper jaw. This appliance is used to expand the palate and create space at an early age or correct a cross bite.

Retainer
Any orthodontic appliance, fixed or removable, used to maintain the position of the teeth following orthodontic treatment.

Retention
The passive treatment period following active orthodontic correction during which a retainer is worn.

Space Maintainers
An appliance which maintains space in a region where a baby tooth was lost prematurely.

TwinBlock
Removable upper and lower appliances used to redirect the growth of the lower jaw to correct a functional biting problem.


 
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