Overjet: A horizontal overlap of the front teeth.
Band (orthodontic): Bands are thin metal rings (usually stainless steel) that keep an orthodontic attachment (like a bracket) secured to a tooth. The band is fitted closely to the contours of the tooth and cemented in place. The orthodontic attachment is typically welded or soldered to the band.
Bracket: A small piece of metal, ceramic or plastic that is secured to a tooth either by bonding or banding.
Archwire: An archwire, affixed to the brackets on your teeth, helps guide the movement of your teeth. Throughout your treatment, Dr. DuClos may use different gauges of archwire to achieve the proper results. When you visit your general dentist for exams or cleanings, you’ll need to have our office remove your archwire and replace it again after your dental exam.
Coil Spring: Small spring placed around arch wire to either maintain or increase the space between teeth.
Color Tie: A color rubber band that secures the archwire to the bracket.
Elastics (rubber bands): These are used to move teeth in prescribed directions. Instructions will be given on how to wear them and how often. This is where the patient's involvement is extremely important, as it is up to him or her to take them on and off. In order to have braces removed at scheduled date, these elastics have to be worn according the doctors instructions.
Debanding/Debonding: The removal of cemented orthodontic bands and brackets.
Orthognathic Surgery: Surgery to alter relationships of teeth and/or supporting bones, usually accomplished in conjunction with orthodontic therapy. This is usually done when there is no further growth expected.
Radiograph, or X-ray: A permanent image, performed digitally in our office, that shows growth and development of teeth and helps us develop a treatment plan.