This treatment is for you if…
You want to align your teeth more quickly.
What are self-ligating brackets?
Self-ligating brackets are used in orthodontic treatments that do not require either ligatures or bands to attach the arch to them. An increasing number of professionals are opting to use this technique to resolve malocclusion problems, due to its effectiveness and speed in obtaining results.
Its functioning is very easy: unlike traditional brackets that require ligatures or bands, self-ligating brackets do not require them and the arches are attached by a clip that exercises enough pressure to adjust the teeth’s position.
This technology reduces to a minimum the pressure exercised on the teeth, which provides a rapid, comfortable movement of teeth. Mechanics that generate very little friction, enabling teeth to be aligned much more quickly.
Types of self-ligating brackets
Based on the materials used, we can differentiate between different types of self-ligating brackets:
Metallic self-ligating brackets
They are made of a stainless steel and nickel alloy. They are considered to be anti-aesthetic since, on being placed on the front side of the teeth, they are highly visible.
Aesthetic self-ligating brackets
They are manufactured with materials that go unnoticed due to their similarity with the colour of the teeth, such as polycarbonate or resin. They are practically transparent at first sight and, due to the quality of the materials of which they are made, their price is somewhat higher than that of the metallic self-ligating brackets.
Furthermore, depending on the self-ligating system, the following differentiations are made:
Active self-ligating brackets
They exercise pressure on the arch through an active clip with a certain calibre.
Passive self-ligating brackets
The arch passes freely through the brackets, so they exercise the least friction.
Advantages of self-ligating brackets
- They facilitate oral hygiene due to the absence of ligatures that surround each bracket. Teeth are less cluttered than with other treatments, enabling them to be brushed more easily, thereby eliminating bacteria and food remains more effectively.
- Reduced possibility of suffering dental pain or emergencies. Normally, the biggest disadvantages of orthodontic treatments are related with ligatures. If they are free or the arch comes off, the braces may fall off and stick into the soft tissue.
- Fewer visits to the orthodontist. Since the movements exercised by these treatments are quicker, check-ups can be spaced out over time.
- It is a much more durable system, since the self-ligating system does not get worn down. The traditional band system does suffer certain wear and tear over time, and it is necessary to replace said bands.
Generally, the treatment is shorter, since the union between the self-ligating brackets and the arch is much more effective than with bands.
Self-ligating bracket treatment phases
Despite the fact that the self-ligating brackets are slightly different to any other type of bracket, the treatment phases are, essentially, the same as any other orthodontic study. Hence, six phases can be differentiated:
1. The specialist prepares an initial study of the patient’s teeth to provide a personalised diagnosis and determine the type of brackets that best adjust to their treatment. Accordingly, they take x-rays and photographs, etc.
2. Fitting of brackets. In this second stage, the specialist will place the self-ligating brackets on the outside of the patient’s teeth. This phase is similar to the cementing of other brackets. The only difference is that, in this case, it is not necessary to place metallic external ligatures or bands to attach the metal arch to the brackets – it is held with the self-closure of the bracket itself so the process is quicker and easier.
3. Correction of the bite using intermaxillary elastic, which is used to correct malocclusion.
4. Once all dental parts are correctly placed, open spaces between teeth as a result of the treatment will be closed.
5. During the treatment process, the patient frequently visits the odontologist to observe that the objectives set in the first phase are being obtained. Every now and again, certain adjustments must be made to the treatment to perfect teeth positioning.
6. The last phase is the withdrawal of the self-litigating brackets and the end of the treatment itself. However, the teeth have memory and they frequently try and return to their original position, hence it is not advisable for patients to lower their guard. The specialist will recommend the use of retainers for a certain time, where appropriate.
In general, the duration of this treatment will depend, to a large extent, on the degree of correction of each patient, but also on their commitment to the specialist’s instructions. Generally, conventional orthodontic treatment may last between 18-36 months although, thanks to the self-ligating brackets, this time may be reduced by up to 12 months.
FAQs
Self-ligating brackets are a type of orthodontic appliance that do not require ligatures or rubber bands to hold the archwire to the brackets. The archwire is held in place by a clip, which reduces friction and speeds up tooth movement, making treatment faster and more comfortable.
The length of treatment varies from patient to patient. However, while conventional orthodontic treatment can last between 18 and 36 months, with self-ligating braces it can be reduced by up to 12 months.
Self-ligating brackets usually generate less friction and pressure, which reduces discomfort compared to traditional brackets. However, it is normal to feel some discomfort at first and after adjustments.
Unlike traditional braces, self-ligating brackets are not ‘tightened’ in the same way. Instead of using elastic or metal ligatures to tighten the archwire, self-ligating brackets have a clip mechanism that adjusts the archwire in a more gentle and controlled manner. During check-ups, the orthodontist adjusts the archwire if necessary, but the process is more efficient and comfortable thanks to self-ligating technology.
Self-ligating brackets do not need to be ‘tightened’ in the traditional sense. Because of their advanced design, self-ligating brackets apply continuous, controlled force to the teeth, reducing the need for frequent adjustments. The orthodontist will review progress during follow-up visits and may change the archwire or make minor adjustments as needed.
It is recommended that you avoid hard, sticky or crunchy foods that may damage or dislodge the brackets.
The cost of orthodontics varies depending on the case and the type of orthodontics applied. You can consult the Adeslas orthodontics price list by clicking here.
Remember that you can request a free check-up with one of our experts to personally evaluate your case and prepare a detailed estimate.
Prices
The amounts indicated have been estimated in line with a full treatment, in accordance with the parameters in the table. Includes: study, treatment and check-ups during the treatment, so it serves as a guide and is of a merely informative non-contractual nature. The personalised treatment will be examined in line with the medical prescription. Prices can be increased if additional costs are incurred as a result of the requests made by each customer. Price valid until 31 December 2024 except in the event of a typing error.
