During various phases of treatment, small elastics or rubber bands are used as a gentle but continuous force to help individual tooth movement or the aligning of jaws.

	A metal wire which is attached to your brackets to move your teeth.

	Bands are the larger metal rings that are somtimes placed on back teeth for strength and anchorage.

	Brackets are the small metal or ceramic modules attached to each tooth. They serve as guides to move the teeth and hold the archwire in place. The brackets used in orthodontics today bond directly to the teeth with a tooth-colored bonding adhesive. They are much smaller and lighter than ever.

	A stretchable elastic chain used to hold arch wires into brackets and to move teeth.

	A device that is used to protect your mouth from injury when you are participating in sports. The use of a mouthguard is especially important for orthodontic patients, to prevent injuries.

	An appliance used to make your jaw wider.

	A small, circular rubber band, which the orthodontist uses to create space between your teeth for bands.

	Retainers are worn for many reasons, most importantly to maintain alignment of the teeth after orthodontic treatment is complete. Retainers are essential to guarantee a lifetime with a beautiful smile.

	A clear wax used to prevent your braces from irritating your lips when your braces are put on, or at other times.