HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What is a bracket in orthodontics?

1. A type of dental exam

2. A small device bonded to teeth to hold the arch wire in place

3. A type of tooth extraction tool

4. None of the above

The correct answer is: A small device bonded to teeth to hold the arch wire in place

In orthodontics, a bracket is a small device that is bonded to the surface of a tooth to secure the arch wire in place. This arch wire is a crucial component of orthodontic treatment as it helps to guide the teeth into their desired position over time. Brackets can be made from various materials, including metal, ceramic, and plastic, and they come in different designs to cater to a patient's specific orthodontic needs. Functionally, brackets work by providing a stable attachment point for the arch wire, which applies gentle pressure on the teeth. As the teeth respond to this pressure, they gradually move into alignment. This process is essential for effective orthodontic treatment, making brackets a fundamental element in the field. The other choices do not align with the definition and function of a bracket in orthodontics. A dental exam refers to an assessment of oral health, a tooth extraction tool is used to remove teeth, and "none of the above" does not accurately describe the role of brackets, which are integral to the orthodontic appliance system.