Bracket

A bracket is a small lock that can be fixed onto the teeth and is used to transfer forces and torques of orthodontic wires to the teeth. Brackets are the universal working tool in fixed orthodontics. Bonded brackets have been used in orthodontics since 1970 and have since largely replaced the previously used cemented bands.

Today, the constantly further developed brackets take a lot of work off the orthodontists’ hands, e.g. by using specially shaped brackets for each individual tooth (programming, straight-wire technique).

Another relief is self-ligation, which eliminates the time-consuming fixation of orthodontic wires with elastic or wire ligatures. Nevertheless, good training and craftsmanship are prerequisites for working successfully with brackets.