Orthodontic Glossary – Demystifying Orthodontic Treatment

Orthodontic arch
Adult patient receiving orthodontic treatment at MP Orthodontics

Explaining Common Orthodontic Terms

Welcome to our Orthodontic Glossary, your go-to resource for understanding some of the terminology used in orthodontics. Our orthodontists put together the most common treatment terms and clear explanations to help you navigate your orthodontic journey with confidence.

Our goal is to empower you with all the information you need to make informed decisions about your dental health. Whether you are considering braces, Invisalign or simply need some additional information, we're sure you'll find some useful information here.

Orthodontic Treatment Terms and Phrases

Orthodontic Treatment Terms and Phrases

An orthodontic archwire is a connective metal wire that joins the brackets used in orthodontic treatment. Most commonly made from stainless steel, the archwire is responsible for the gradual movement of teeth into the desired position. Advancements in clear and ceramic braces have introduced clear archwires further reducing the visibility of braces.

A bracket is an orthodontic attachment that is bonded to the surface of the tooth. Brackets are used to hold the archwire which guides the teeth into their optimal positions. Brackets can be made from either stainless steel or ceramic materials.

Banding is the process of creating a stable anchor for braces during orthodontic treatment. A thin, stainless steel ring is placed around the molars (rear teeth) and bonded in place.

Excessive grinding or clenching of the jaw. Left uncorrected, bruxism can lead to tooth damage and premature wear. It can also lead to related issues such as headaches and jaw pain.

The outer surface of the tooth that contacts the cheek.

A fixed orthodontic appliance used to correct bite issues such as overbite and underbite. It is also an effective treatment for correcting overcrowding. The Carriere appliance can be used as a stand-alone treatment, or in conjunction with braces.

A description of the optimal dental alignment of upper and lower teeth when the jaws are closed. A class 1 buccal relationship refers specifically to the correct alignment of the rearmost teeth (molars and premolars).

A description of dental alignment between the rearmost teeth (molars and premolars). Class 2 buccal relationship is often used to describe an overbite.

A description of the most common type of dental misalignment. It describes a normal bite with minor issues such as crowding, spacing or rotated teeth. Class 1 malocclusion is considered the least severe of orthodontic issues.

Class 1 malocclusion treatment options include braces and Invisalign followed by a retainer to ensure teeth remain in their new position.

A description of dental misalignment where the upper teeth and jaw overlap the lower teeth and jaw. Class 2 malocclusion can be characterised by a noticeable overbite or a deep bite.

Class 2 malocclusion treatment options include braces and Invisalign. Depending on the severity of the overbite, treatment may include the use of other fixed appliances such as the Carriere appliance.

A description of dental misalignment where the lower teeth and jaw overlap the upper teeth and jaw. Class 3 malocclusions are characterised by a noticeable underbite.

Class 3 malocclusions can negatively impact bite function and speech. Class 3 malocclusion treatment options include braces and Invisalign. Depending on the severity of the underbite, treatment may include additional therapies.

An orthodontic device used to correct dental alignment issues without traditional braces. Made from transparent plastic, clear aligners are almost entirely invisible. Their discreet nature makes them a popular choice for patients wanting to correct orthodontic issues without wearing braces.

A dental misalignment where the upper teeth bite inside and outside of the lower teeth. Crossbites can occur at the mouth's front, side, or rear.

A temporary solution for protecting the soft tissues of the mouth from the sharp edges of orthodontic appliances or dentures.

Elastics apply additional pressure to guide teeth to their optimal position during orthodontic treatment.

Describes the process of teeth growing into their functional position. During the process, teeth move from within the jaw, to a visible position through the gums.

Fixed orthodontic devices are used to increase the width of the upper jaw. Expanders are typically made from a combination of stainless steel and acrylic materials. They work by applying gradual pressure to the molars and premolars, and additional space to correct bite misalignment.

Expanders are best suited to orthodontic treatment in children as the jawbones are still forming. The use of expanders is less common for adults. 

Orthodontic appliances that are worn until treatment is completed. Clear aligners are an example of removable appliances as they can removed to eat and drink.

The clinical term for gums. 

A condition describing the appearance of an unbalanced ratio of teeth to gums. It can be characterised by teeth appearing shorter than they actually are. The appearance of more than 2mm of gum showing above the upper teeth is a common characteristic.

The tongue side of teeth in the upper and lower jaws.

The term is used to describe dental misalignment.

The lower jaw bone.

The upper jaw bone.
MP Orthodontics team preparing patient for treatment of complex orthodontic cases
Dr Martin Poon

A description of dental misalignment where teeth do not overlap when the jaws are closed. The tooth and jaw position contribute to an open bite. It can occur as:

  • Front open bite (anterior open bite)
  • Side open bite (lateral open bite)
  • Rear open bite (posterior open bite)

The condition can negatively affect bite function, chewing and speech. Orthodontists typically use braces or clear aligners to realign the bite in cases of open bites.

A device used to modify the growth and development of the facial bones. Unlike orthodontic appliances, orthopaedic appliances guide the growth of bone structure. Examples of orthopaedic appliances include palatal expanders, bite plates and headgear.

A dental misalignment describing the vertical overlap of upper teeth over the lower teeth. Overbites can be characterised as mild, moderate or severe. They can cause uneven or premature tooth wear, chewing difficulties and facial aesthetics.

Depending on the severity and related issues, overbites are treated using conventional orthodontic treatments such as braces or clear aligners.

A dental misalignment describing the outward protrusion of the front teeth. Commonly referred to as buck teeth, the condition is characterised as a gap between the upper and lower front teeth. Correcting overjet can improve bite function and speech as well as improve the appearance of the smile.

A fixed orthodontic appliance used to increase the width of the upper jaw (maxilla). Treatment with a palatal expander is typically reserved for children due to positive adaption of the surrounding bones. Palatal expanders are typically not used for adults.

A sticky, colourless layer of bacteria that forms on teeth and gums. Plaque is created when saliva and food particles combine after eating. Without thorough brushing and flossing, plaque can harden leading to tartar. Left untreated, tartar leads to gum disease and tooth decay.

A removable orthodontic appliance used to maintain the position of teeth. Retainers are typically used following treatment with braces or clear aligners. Often made from a combination of stainless steel and acrylic, retainers help to keep teeth in place long enough for supportive tissues to adapt to their new positions.

A dental misalignment describing the outward protrusion of the lower teeth. Referred to as a class 3 malocclusion, the condition is characterised by the lower jaw appearing to extend further than the upper jaw. Accurate diagnosis and treatment planning can ensure optimal bite alignment can be achieved.

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