Orthodontist in Fresno, CA (California), Mark A. Lowe, DDS
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Ortho Dictionary

 Ortho Dictionary 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 and "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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