Braces adjust the position of your teeth and jaw. Your dentist may recommend them to straighten crooked teeth, change the distance between your teeth, or correct a misaligned bite.
How are self-ligating braces different from traditional braces
Braces are appliances that are attached to your teeth. A thin metal wire called an archwire passes through the slots in the braces. The archwire is gradually adjusted to apply force, moving your teeth into the correct position. For braces to work effectively, the archwire must remain secured in the brackets.
Traditional braces achieve this using elastic bands or metal ties (ligatures). Ligatures visually enlarge the braces and also make the archwire immobile. As your teeth move into the correct position, the ligatures must be tightened with elastic ties every month or more often.
Self-ligating braces use a built-in system to hold the archwire in place. The brackets or clips hold the wire in place, and it retains a little mobility
What are self-ligating braces
There are two types of self-ligating braces: active and passive. Both types use a mechanism similar to locks. Active braces have a mechanism that presses on the archwire and moves the teeth more quickly. Passive braces fix the archwire but do not press on it, and affect the teeth more slowly, making the treatment more comfortable.
Like traditional braces, self-ligating braces require periodic adjustments. During adjustments, the orthodontist will assess the progress of the teeth’s alignment and may also replace the archwire. Adjustments can change the force acting on the teeth, helping them gradually move into a new position.
Self-ligating braces are made of both metal and clear ceramic material. There are also sapphire braces. Sapphire and ceramic braces are the color of the tooth enamel, but the archwire will still be metal.
Ceramic and sapphire braces look more aesthetically pleasing. The former are made of ceramic, the color of which is selected according to the shade of the enamel, and the latter are made of transparent sapphire crystals. However, the archwire is used in all cases of metal.
Depending on the location, ligature-free braces can be vestibular (attached to the outside of the teeth) or lingual (attached to the inside of the teeth).
Self-ligating braces are primarily suitable for:
- patients who are more sensitive to discomfort in the oral cavity;
- patients who cannot sit still in the dental chair for a long time.
However, like traditional braces, self-ligating braces can cause discomfort, especially after installation or adjustment. In some cases, self-ligating braces may cause less discomfort than traditional braces, as long as the wearer maintains proper oral hygiene while wearing them.
Benefits of self-ligating braces
There are several potential benefits to using self-ligating braces.
These include:
- Shorter visits to the orthodontist: Traditional braces require replacement of ligatures, while self-ligating braces take less time to adjust;
- Easier cleaning: Ligatures can trap food particles in and around the braces; the absence of ligatures in self-ligating braces may make them easier to clean.
- Less discomfort: You may experience less discomfort with self-ligating braces than with traditional braces.
Are self-ligating braces faster and more effective?
Current research does not support this claim.
The length of treatment depends largely on the individual case. A 2011 study by Trusted Source compared self-ligating braces to traditional braces in 62 people. Researchers found no difference in the length of treatment.
However, it’s possible that self-ligating braces may speed up some aspects of treatment. A 2019 study compared the speed of alignment in 30 people who used traditional braces to self-ligating braces. It found that the alignment of the upper teeth occurred significantly faster in the first 4 months of treatment with self-ligating braces. Another concern after you get braces is the long-term stability of your newly aligned teeth.
A study in 60 people compared the long-term stability of traditional braces to self-ligating braces. Researchers found no difference between the two types of braces. In a 2017 review, researchers found that there was no significant difference in the effectiveness of traditional braces and self-ligating braces.
Are there any risks
There are some potential risks to self-ligating braces. One of them is the breakage of the bracket. It is possible that repeatedly opening and closing self-ligating braces can cause wear. If the brace needs to be replaced, this can increase the length of treatment. Other risks associated with self-ligating braces are similar to those of traditional braces:
- Caries: Food particles can get stuck in any type of brace, which can cause plaque to build up and increase the risk of cavities;
- Reversion: If you don’t wear a retainer after your braces are removed, it is possible that your teeth will start to move back into their original positions.
Cost of Self-ligating Braces
In general, self-ligating braces cost more than traditional braces. This is because they contain a more advanced type of technology. Other factors that can affect the cost are the amount of correction needed and the overall length of treatment.
Self-ligating braces use a built-in mechanism to hold the archwire in place. People with self-ligating braces may have shorter orthodontist visits, have an easier time brushing their teeth, and experience less discomfort. However, current research shows that there is no significant difference in effectiveness between traditional and self-ligating braces. If you are interested in self-ligating braces, contact the YAREMA DENTAL clinic in Kyiv. Our specialists can help determine if self-ligating braces are right for you and install them.