Braces 101, from Dau Orthodontics

Should you need to call Dau Orthodontics in case you sustain any damage to your braces, we can help you more effectively if you can tell us exactly which piece is in trouble! Here’s a handy diagram and corresponding list of all the parts that make up your braces.



Elastic Tie: Tiny rubber band that fits around the bracket to hold the archwire in place.

Archwire: The main wire that acts as a track to guide the teeth along. It's changed periodically throughout treatment, as teeth move to their new positions.

Loop in Archwire: Frequently used for closing space left by an extraction. Many archwires don't have a loop.

Bracket: Small attachment that holds the archwire in place. Most often, a bracket is cemented directly onto the tooth's surface, eliminating the need for a band.

Headgear Tube: Round, hollow attachment on the back bands. The inner bow of the headgear fits into it.

Coil Spring: Fits between brackets and over archwire to open space between teeth.

Tie Wire: Fine wire that is twisted around the bracket to hold the archwire in place.

Band: A thin ring of metal fitted around a tooth and cemented in place. The band provides a way to attach the brackets to the tooth.

Hook: Welded or removable arm to which elastics (rubber bands) are attached.

Elastic (Rubber Band): Small rubber band that is hooked between different points on the appliance to provide pressure to move the teeth.

Hope this helps! Give us a call if you have any questions!

Breaking Down the Myths and Facts of Orthodontics, from Dr. Dau

Dr. Dau and his team know there are quite a few myths about orthodontists circulating around these days. Before you buy into those myths, they think you should get the facts! We came across a great site that helps set the record straight. Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have some excellent information on the myths and facts of orthodontics. Check them out today!

Hope this helps. Give us a call if you have any questions and Happy Thanksgiving!

Why Is It So Important To Have Straight Teeth? Dr. Dau Has the Answer

Some people wonder why Dr. Dau works so hard to give his patients straight teeth. Of course it’s nice to have a smile full of evenly aligned teeth, but did you know that straightening your teeth can keep them healthier? Straight teeth lead to better oral hygiene, increasing your chances of keeping your own natural teeth for a lifetime.

Straight teeth are less prone to decay, because they collect less plaque – the sticky colorless substance that forms on our teeth and leads to tooth decay; and they are easier to keep clean!

If you’re wondering whether your teeth might cause problems because they are out of alignment, give us a call to set up a consultation. Dau Orthodontics can help you decide whether or not you will benefit from orthodontic treatment.

Meet Dr. Dau

Dr. Steven V. Dau grew up in the Tampa Bay area, where he received his Bachelor's degree at the University of South Florida. He earned his Doctorate of Dental Medicine at the University of Florida and obtained his Master's of Science in Dentistry at Saint Louis University, specializing in orthodontics. Dr. Dau is committed to being a leader in his profession. He sets high treatment standards and continually attends seminars and courses to keep current with the latest advances in orthodontics such as self-ligating braces, orthodontic implants, ceramic braces and Invisalign.

Dr. Dau is committed to being an active member in the community. He supports community projects and sponsors various youth sport leagues throughout the year. He is also an active member of the New Tampa Noon Rotary Club, which promotes and sponsors various charities and local organizations. Dr. Dau has participated in missionary trips to Haiti to provide dental care to local villagers.

In his spare time, Dr. Dau enjoys spending time with his family and traveling, especially to the northern regions for snowboarding. He has visited countries such as South Africa, Zimbabwe, Haiti, and Malaysia. He also enjoys basketball, tennis, art, and white-water rafting.