Malaligned teeth (image 1 of 3). Malaligned teeth prior to treatment with a dental brace (or orthodontic device). The mouth is being held open by a pair of dental retractors showing one of the incisors (upper right) overriding another. Braces consist of metal brackets cemented to each tooth, connected together with an adjustable wire. They are worn to correct malocclusions (poor teeth alignment on the upper and lower jaws) or teeth overcrowding. Fixed braces are used when many teeth need repositioning as they give more control over teeth movement than removable braces. To view the teeth during and after treatment see images M780/256 & M780/257 respectively.