facebow

facebow

(fās′bō″) [″ + AS boga] In orthodontics, an appliance that maintains the position of the posterior molars or moves the molars distally. A metal archwire (a metal wire fitting the dental or alveolar arch) is attached to a molar tooth in each arch. External attachments connect to an elastic strap that fits behind the head. The force for this active appliance is supplied by the neck strap.