One tooth has a bracket but no wire running through it - was this a mistake by my orthodontist?

Answer: Missing wire

By Sarah h
Dental Professional

Your orthodontist should always check your brackets and wires before you are dismissed especially at your first appointment. Space may need to be made prior to the canine being brought into position.  Sometimes if there is enough space, an elastic or stainless steel ligature tie will be attached to the bracket and the wire to help bring the canine into position. However, if there is not enough space yet, bringing it down now will only create a larger crowding problem. Be sure to have your orthodontist take a look at your next appointment and ask when you can expect to have that tooth brought into position. Your orthodontist wouldn’t have the dental assistants working on his/her patients if he didn’t trust them. Keep in mind that orthodontic assistants attend additional training after completing their expanded functions program, prior to being able to apply as an orthodontic assistant.