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Braces 101

Braces are an orthodontic appliance designed to straighten teeth by gradually moving them into place over a long period. When wearing braces, avoid eating chewy, hard or sticky foods. Braces need to be maintained with regular brushing, flossing and dental check-ups.

  1. Brackets

    • A complete set of braces includes several brackets, which is a single brace attached to the tooth. Brackets have three different components: the wings, the slot and the base. The base attaches the bracket to the tooth while the wings hold a wire into the slot with a small rubber band.

    Bands

    • A band is a wire that surrounds the tooth, attaches to a tube and provides structure and security against the braces breaking. Bands are primarily for back molars, but sometimes are for the teeth in front of the molars as well.

    Appliances

    • During treatment, it is possible that certain appliances are necessary to use with the braces for optimal results including rubber bands, headgear, positioners, retainers and separators. The prescription of these appliances depends on the individual needs of each patient.

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