Short Description
A metal ring cemented around a tooth to anchor braces or other orthodontic appliances.
Long Description
A band is a thin, stainless-steel ring that is cemented around a tooth—typically a molar—to serve as an anchor for orthodontic appliances like braces or headgear attachments. Bands provide stability and support for the movement of teeth during orthodontic treatment.
Orthodontic bands often come with brackets, hooks, or tubes welded onto them, which allow the orthodontist to attach wires, elastics, or other components needed to guide tooth positioning. Unlike removable parts, bands are fixed in place for the duration of treatment.
They are typically placed after the tooth is cleaned and the fit is confirmed. Though durable and effective, bands may cause mild discomfort at first and require careful brushing and flossing to prevent plaque buildup around the edges.