Ectopic Eruption

Term used to describe a tooth or teeth that erupt in an abnormal position and do not follow their usual course. Ectopic eruption can cause early root resorption on adjacent teeth.

Elastics

Rubber bands. During certain stages of treatment, small elastics or rubber bands are worn to provide individual tooth movement or jaw alignment.

Enamel

Hard, white outer layer of a tooth, and the hardest substance in the human body. It is the enamel that allows us to bite and chew. If enamel breaks off from a tooth or wears away as a result of abnormal forces generated by a bad bite (or malocclusion), it will never be regenerated. It is not possible to regenerate enamel.

Eruption

The process by which teeth enter into the mouth.

Essix Retainer

Essix retainers are distinguished by their low-profile design. Designed entirely from transparent plastic, they contain no metal wires and can be removed for eating and brushing.

Expander

An orthodontic appliance that expands the jaw. This appliance is usually used to correct a crossbite.