| Arch wire | A wire engaged in orthodontic attachments, affixed to the crowns of two or more teeth, and capable of causing or guiding tooth movement. |
| Band (orthodontic) | A thin metal ring, usually stainless steel, which serves to secure orthodontic attachments to a tooth. The band, with orthodontic attachments welded or soldered to it, is closely adapted to fit the contours of the tooth and then cemented in place. |
| Bracket | An orthodontic attachment that is secured to a tooth (either by bonding or banding) for the purpose of engaging an arch wire. Brackets can be fabricated from metal, ceramic, or plastic. |
| Elastics (rubber bands) | Used to move teeth in prescribed direction (commonly connected to molar band and upper ball hook). Found in numerous colors for better appearance. |
| Herbst Appliance | Fixed appliance designed commonly for overbite problems and more. |
| Lingual | Of or pertaining to the tongue. A term used to describe surfaces and directions toward the tongue. |
| Lingual Retainers | Orthodontic retainers fixed to the lingual surface of the teeth. |
| Maxillary | Of or pertaining to the upper jaw. May be used to describe teeth, dental restorations, orthodontic appliances, or facial structures. |
| Orthodontist | A dental specialist who has completed an advanced post-doctoral course, accredited by the American Dental Association, of at least two academic years in the special area of orthodontics. |
| Orthognathic Surgery | Surgery to alter relationships of teeth and/or supporting bones, usually accomplished in conjunction with orthodontic therapy. |
| Overbite | Vertical overlapping of upper teeth over lower teeth, usually measured perpendicular to the occlusal plane. |
| Radiograph | A permanent image, typically on film, produced by ionizing radiation. Sometimes called an x-ray after the most common source of image-producing radiation. |
| Retainer | Any orthodontic appliance, fixed or removable, used to maintain the position of the teeth following corrective treatment. |
| Retention | The passive treatment period following active orthodontic correction during which retaining appliances may be used. |