Are There Benefits to Self-Ligating Braces?

Long Beach, CA – We continue to see great advances in the orthodontic world. We have more treatment options than ever before as well as technological advances that allow patients to finish treatment much more quickly. One treatment option many patients love is self-ligating braces. They offer many advantages over more traditional braces.

First, let’s talk about what self-ligating braces are. They are metal or ceramic braces that have a special clip mechanism that holds the wire in place within the bracket. This is in contrast to traditional braces which use elastic ligature ties, aka tiny colored rubber bands, to hold the archwires in the brackets. There are several different types of self-ligating brackets, including but not limited to, the Damon system, 3M Smart Clip, Speed, and Innovation. 

Braces work by applying pressure to your teeth to encourage them to move in pre-determined directions. The elastic ligature ties of traditional braces function to keep the wire attached to the brackets as the wire guides the teeth to their new locations, but this process creates friction. Self-ligating braces have less friction between the bracket and wire interface, and this results in reduced forces on the teeth and a more comfortable experience. 

What are the top advantages to using self-ligating braces?

1. They may reduce your treatment time. This is because less friction allows teeth to move more freely and quickly. Depending on the total estimated treatment time, some patients may be able to see as  much as six months reduced treatment time using self-ligating braces.
2. You won’t have to spend as much time in our office. Self-ligating braces reduce the length of your appointments, because we don’t have to change out ligature ties, which means you can be in and out in no time. The appointment intervals are also longer (typically every 8-10 weeks) because the wires remain active in the clip mechanism. 
3. Even complex cases can be treated with self-ligating braces. Some newer treatment options like INBRACE lingual braces aren’t ideal for all patients. Self-ligating braces provide a high level of control and can be used for almost every patient. 
4. Their material can withstand all the wear and tear braces are put through. When you are investing in your smile, you want to know that the treatment option you choose can stand up to all the wear and tear you are going to put your braces through. Self-ligating braces are made of tough metals that are strong and durable. As long as you stick to the list of foods that are safe for your braces, you don’t have to worry about damaging your braces.
5. Patients receive more comfortable treatment. Self-ligating braces offer a more comfortable experience, as the reduced friction imparts less force on the teeth.
6. Both teens and adults can benefit from self-ligating braces. And because they require fewer visits, they fit well into even the busiest person’s schedule. 

Follow all the care guidelines provided by your orthodontist, and your time in self-ligating braces will be easy. Some options, such as clear aligners, require a high degree of patient compliance. Forgetting to wear them or not wearing them the prescribed amount of time can throw your treatment off course. But with self-ligating braces, you don’t have to worry about that. Just follow your orthodontist’s directions, such as avoiding certain foods, brushing and flossing, and your treatment will progress as it should. 

Orthodontic treatment is important for several reasons. Not only does a beautiful smile increase your confidence, a straight smile also improves your oral health. Self-ligating braces are an excellent way to get the smile you deserve.