Final answer:
2) bands. Separators are used before the placement of orthodontic bands to create the necessary space between teeth. Bands are cemented to teeth and anchor other appliances such as arch wires in braces, which apply force to realign teeth.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question pertains to a step in the orthodontic procedure prior to the placement of certain components. Specifically, the question is: Before placement of orthodontic _______, separators may be necessary. The correct answer is bands. Separators or spacers are small elastic rings or metal devices that orthodontists use to create space between teeth. This space is necessary before fitting the orthodontic bands, which are metal rings that are cemented to teeth and anchor orthodontic appliances such as arch wires.
Orthodontic bands are essential because they provide a firm anchor to the complex network of braces. Braces apply continuous pressure over time to move teeth into the desired position. The figure in the question, which shows braces applying force to realign a protruding tooth, underscores that the force applied by the wire is directed toward the back of the mouth to achieve teeth realignment. Other parts of an orthodontic brace, like bonded brackets and ligatures, are also crucial, but in the context of using separators, it's the placement of the bands that's relevant.