archwire
A wire engaged in orthodontic brackets or bands which guide tooth movement.
band (orthodontic)
A thin metal ring, usually made of 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.
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 stainless steel, ceramic or plastic.
ceramic brackets
Crystalline, alumina, tooth-shade or clear synthetic sapphire brackets that are less noticeable than traditional stainless steel brackets.
cone beam (CBCT)
A three dimensional radiographic image used as a diagnostic tool (a tomogram) that in orthodontics is focused to image the teeth and jaws
crowding
Dental malalignment caused by inadequate space for the teeth.
debanding and debonding
The removal of cemented orthodontic bands and bonded appliances..
elastics (rubber bands)
Used to coordinate the top and bottom teeth together for a correct occlusion (bite).
gingiva
The tissue that surrounds the teeth, consisting of a fibrous tissue that is continuous with the periodontal ligament and mucosal covering.
headgear
Generic term for extraoral traction (attached around the back side of the head) for growth modification, tooth movement and anchorage.
Herbst appliance
A fixed (attached) intraoral appliance designed to correrct overbite problems. In many cases it can be used instead of headgear.
imaging
The process of acquiring representations of structures in either two or three dimensions.
intra-oral scan
A digital three-dimensional intra-oral scan of the teeth that replaces traditional dental impressions.
lingual
Of or pertaining to the tongue. A term used to describe surfaces and directions toward the tongue.
lingual appliances
Orthodontic appliances fixed to the lingual surface of the teeth.
maxillary
Of or pertaining to the upper jaw. May be used to describe teeth, dental restorations, orthodontic appliances or facial structures.
orthodontist
A dental specialist who has completed an advanced post-doctoral course, accredited by the American Dental Association, or at least two academic years in the special area of orthodontics.
orthognathic surgery
Surgery to alter relationships of teeth and/or supporting bones, usually accomplished in conjunction with orthodontic therapy.
overbite
Vertical overlapping of upper teeth over lower teeth, usually measured perpendicular to the occlusal plane.
radiograph
A permanent image produced by ionizing radiation. Sometimes called an X-ray after the most common source of image-producing radiation.
retainer
Any orthodontic appliance, fixed or removable, used to maintain the position of the teeth following corrective treatment.
retention
The passive treatment period following active orthodontic correction during which retaining appliances may be used.