Bite Classifications | Diagnostic Record Procedures | Orthodontic Procedures |
Parts of Braces
Bite Classifications
Class I Malocclusion: Where your bite is positioned properly and your upper teeth line up with your bottom teeth front to back. The teeth are usually crowded or spaced.
Class II Malocclusion: Where your upper teeth stick out past your lower teeth. This is also called an "overbite" or "buck teeth".
Class III Malocclusion: Where your lower teeth stick out past your upper teeth. This is also called an "underbite".
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Diagnostic Record Procedures
Cephalometric X-ray: An x-ray of your head which shows the relative positions of the face, jaws and teeth.
Consultation: A meeting with your orthodontist to discuss a treatment plan.
Digital Photos: A series of photos taken of your face and teeth prior to treatment.
Impressions: The process of making study models of your teeth by biting into a soft material that hardens over your teeth.
Panoramic X-ray: An x-ray that rotates around your head that shows your teeth, jaws and other facial structures.
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Orthodontic Procedures
Banding: The process of fitting and cementing orthodontic bands to your teeth.
Bonding: The process of adhering brackets to your teeth using special orthodontic cement.
Debanding: The process of removing the cemented bands from your teeth.
Debonding: The process of removing the cemented brackets from your teeth.
Ligation: The process of securing an archwire to the brackets on your teeth.
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Parts of Braces
Appliance: Any device your orthodontist uses to move your teeth or change jaw position. An appliance can be fixed or removable.
Bond: A seal created by the orthodontic cement that will hold any appliance in place.
Ligature: A thin wire that holds your archwire to your bracket.
Mouthguard: A rubbery appliance that protects your mouth from injury when you participate in sports or rigorous activity.
Wax: Wax is used to stop your braces from irritating your lips or cheeks.
For more information, go to: www.braces.org
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