Before you decide to align your smile with braces, our team at Quality Orthodontic Care recommends that you learn a little bit more about the appliance so you’re not left confused and overwhelmed at your appointments. So, to help you, we have provided the definitions to the following words:
Band – A band is a small metal ring that fits tightly around your back molars. This ring supports your large teeth and it keeps them from breaking and cracking. The band also helps with headgear and bite correctors because it holds the appliance in place and gives it the ability to do its job.
Bracket – A bracket is a little metal square that is cemented onto the front surface of your tooth. Each tooth in your smile will have a bracket. These pieces hold the orthodontic wire in place and they apply the necessary pressure to your teeth to shift and change your smile. The bracket is also the piece that you can decorate with different types of colored elastics.
Retainer – A retainer is an appliance that holds your teeth in place after your braces have moved them. The appliance can be either permanent or removable. Another way you can use a retainer is to make small adjustments to the smile.
Adjustment – An adjustment is an appointment that is necessary during your orthodontic journey. It allows your orthodontist to tighten the wires of your appliance to apply added pressure to your teeth. Without this adjustment, your teeth would remain in place and stop shifting.
Orthodontist – An orthodontist is a dentist that specializes in orthodontics. In order to specialize, the orthodontist needs to attend and receive 2-3 additional years of schooling and training. After they complete the program, they are certified orthodontists.
Now that you know all about these orthodontic terms, it’s time to take that first step toward your perfect smile! If you have any questions or if you would like to learn more, please remember that you can always call 770-901-2433 or you can talk to Dr. John Fleming during your appointments. We look forward to helping you along your orthodontic journey!