Elastic tie
A small rubber band that is placed around the bracket to hold the archwire in place.
Loop in archwire
Often used to close a space left by an extraction.
Archwire
A wire engaged in orthodontic attachments, affixed to the crowns of two or more teeth and capable of causing or guiding tooth movement.
Bracket
An orthodontic attachment that is secured to a tooth (either by bonding or banding) for the purpose of engaging an archwire. Brackets can be fabricated from metal, ceramic or plastic.
Headgear tube
A hollow, round attachment placed on the back bands for the inner bow of the headgear to fit properly.
Coil
Used to create space between teeth. They are placed between brackets and over the archwire.
Tie Wire
A small wire that is formed around the brackets to hold the archwire in place.
Band (orthodontic)
A thin metal ring, usually stainless steel, which serves to secure orthodontic attachments to a tooth. The band, with orthodontic attachments welded or soldered to it, is closely adapted to fit the contours of the tooth and then cemented into place.
Hook
A bonded or removable “arm” that is used to attach rubber bands.
Elastics (rubber bands)
Used to move teeth in prescribed direction (commonly connected to molar band and upper ball hook). Found in numerous colors for better appearance.