Chapter 15A: A Closer Look at Bracket Materials and Wire Types

Beyond the broad category of metal versus ceramic, a few additional technical details about braces are worth knowing, mainly so that terms mentioned during adjustment visits don't feel unfamiliar.

Archwire Progression

Treatment typically begins with a thin, highly flexible wire designed to gently begin aligning teeth, and progresses over time to thicker, stiffer wires as treatment advances toward finer bite adjustments. This is why early adjustment visits often involve more noticeable initial movement, while later visits may involve smaller, more precise refinements.

Elastics (Rubber Bands)

Many comprehensive cases involve small elastic bands, worn by the patient between the upper and lower braces, to help correct bite relationships alongside the wire's tooth-alignment work. These are typically removable for eating and are one of the more compliance-dependent parts of treatment, similar in that respect to aligner wear time.

Separators

Before certain back teeth (molars) receive bands, small rubber or metal separators are sometimes placed for a few days beforehand to create a small amount of space between teeth. Mild, temporary tenderness in these specific teeth for a few days is a normal and expected part of this step.