Molar Band
A thin metal ring cemented circumferentially around a molar tooth to provide anchorage and attachment points for orthodontic appliances.
Full Definition
Molar bands are prefabricated stainless-steel rings fitted and cemented to posterior teeth, typically the first or second permanent molars, to serve as attachment points for archwires, transpalatal arches, or headgear tubes. In clinical records, the tooth to which the band is fitted should be identified by tooth notation (e.g., FDI or Palmer notation), and editors must ensure consistent use of whichever system is adopted throughout a document. Molar bands differ from bonded molar tubes, which are directly adhered to the tooth surface; this distinction is clinically significant and must not be conflated. Band cement type (e.g., glass ionomer) may also be specified.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish carefully from 'bonded molar tube' in clinical documents; the two are not interchangeable.
In Context
- "Molar bands were fitted to the upper sixes at the banding appointment prior to archwire placement." — Clinical notes
- "The laboratory prescription specified welded headgear tubes on the upper molar bands." — Laboratory prescription form