What Are the Different Parts of Braces Called?

How Each Part of Braces Works Together

Braces are made up of multiple components that work together to gradually straighten your teeth and correct your bite. Here’s how each part plays a role in your treatment:

Archwire – The Driving Force

The archwire is the main component that moves your teeth. It fits into the bracket slots and applies gentle, continuous pressure, guiding your teeth into alignment over time. Adjustments to the archwire help fine-tune your progress throughout treatment.

Bands are strong metal rings that wrap around the molars and premolars, securing orthodontic attachments in place. Each band is custom-fitted and cemented to prevent shifting while providing stability for the braces. The cement used contains fluoride to help protect teeth during treatment.

Brackets are bonded directly to each tooth and act as guides for the archwire. They hold the wire in place and help control the direction of movement. Brackets can be made of stainless steel for durability or clear ceramic for a more subtle appearance.

Elastic ties are tiny rubber rings that secure the archwire to the brackets. They come in a variety of colors, allowing patients to customize their braces at each appointment.

Hooks are small attachments on certain brackets that are used for elastics or other orthodontic forces. They help correct bite alignment by applying targeted pressure when rubber bands are attached.

Spacers are small rubber rings placed between certain teeth before bands are applied. They create enough space for bands to fit properly around the molars.

Get Affordable Braces from Orthodontists You Can Trust

We hope this has been helpful in understanding the different parts of braces. At Utah Orthodontic Care, we strive to make dream smiles attainable for everyone with our orthodontic financing options, including monthly payment plans. Whether you’re looking for braces for your child needing orthodontic treatment, or want to improve your smile as an adult, you can trust us to meet your needs.

patient wear braces looking in mirror and smiling

What Our Patients Say About Us

Our customers love our service! Here are some of their glowing reviews:

“This clinic is AWESOME! Everyone is so friendly and the doctor is great! I’m happy with my teeth and you really can’t beat the price! Great services and low pricing! I would recommend everyone to come here! Also they are always doing patient appreciation events that are so fun! Bring your kids, your spouse, your friends, your neighbors, BRING EVERYONE!”

– Ana R.

“Great orthodontics! I got my braces at UOC and they’ve been so amazing! First appointment is free, they’ll evaluate your teeth and talk to you about braces option options and prices/ plans.My dental insurance did not cover braces for adults ( I chose not to when I made my plan ) and even if I switched my plan I don’t think it would be a nice affordable plan like UOC offered me with monthly payments … I’m happy with them! They were always nice, friendly and flexible with schedules! Recommend it 100%!”

– Denise A.

“I love this office. The doctor is fun with the kids, very friendly and approachable. The staff is typically very easy to work with and any time we have any question or concern they have been quick to make it right with us. We had a billing hiccup and Lauren was incredibly understanding and made the process to fix it easy. As a lower income family with multiple kids needing orthodontic work, this has been a huge weight off my shoulders. I cannot recommend them enough.”

– Stephanie Carsten

“This clinic is AWESOME! Everyone is so friendly and the doctor is great! I’m happy with my teeth and you really can’t beat the price! Great services and low pricing! I would recommend everyone to come here! Also they are always doing patient appreciation events that are so fun! Bring your kids, your spouse, your friends, your neighbors, BRING EVERYONE!”

– Ana R.

“Great orthodontics! I got my braces at UOC and they’ve been so amazing! First appointment is free, they’ll evaluate your teeth and talk to you about braces option options and prices/ plans. My dental insurance did not cover braces for adults ( I chose not to when I made my plan ) and even if I switched my plan I don’t think it would be a nice affordable plan like UOC offered me with monthly payments … I’m happy with them! They were always nice, friendly and flexible with schedules! Recommend it 100%!”

– Denise A.

“I love this office. The doctor is fun with the kids, very friendly and approachable. The staff is typically very easy to work with and any time we have any question or concern they have been quick to make it right with us. We had a billing hiccup and Lauren was incredibly understanding and made the process to fix it easy. As a lower income family with multiple kids needing orthodontic work, this has been a huge weight off my shoulders. I cannot recommend them enough.”

– Stephanie Carsten

Schedule A Consultation Today!

Ready to straighten your teeth with affordable orthodontics from North Ogden to Orem? Give us a call at (801)999-4431 or complete our online form and we will be in touch soon. We look forward to providing you with the exceptional care you deserve to achieve a beautiful and long-lasting smile!