Braces Diagram
A. Ligature The archwire is held to each bracket with a ligature, which can be either a tiny rubber band or a twisted wire.
B. Archwire The archwire is fastened to all of the brackets and creates force to move teeth into proper alignment.
C. Brackets Brackets are bonded directly onto each tooth.The archwire is held in place by a series of brackets.
D. Molar Bands A metal band with a bracket attached is wrapped around select molars for additional anchorage.
E. Bracket with Hook and Ball Hook Hooks and ball hooks, each attached to a bracket, are used for the attachment of rubber bands (elastics), which help move teeth toward their final position.
F. Rubber Bands Rubber bands (elastics) are used to temporarily connect brackets between the upper and lower jaw to add force for additional tooth movement.