Abstract: An improved orthodontic apparatus is provided having one or more brackets adapted for mounting on the surface of a tooth. The brackets have a wire receiving slot formed therein with non-parrallel slot surfaces. A tapered wire having non-parallel oppositely disposed wire surfaces is also provided. When the wire is positioned in the wire receiving slot and placed under tension, a selected force vector is effected against the tooth. The wire surfaces and the wire receiving slot surfaces may be configured so as to selectively wedge the wire in the slot or provide slidability, as desired. A series of inserts may further be provided for selectively altering the force vectors effected against the tooth. A method and system for utilizing the aforesaid brackets and tapered wire are thereby provided.