Self-ligating braces
We use only efficient systems with predictable results
Installation time — up to 2 weeks For those who have not yet started orthodontic treatment, from the outside all braces may seem the same and differ only in material and aesthetics. In fact, modern orthodontic appliances have a wide variety of designs. Some nuances of the device lock-bracket significantly affect the entire treatment process. It is the mechanism of attachment of the arch to the bracket that distinguishes self-ligating systems from ligature systems. In this article, we will analyze in detail the principle of operation, the device, all the pros and cons of self-ligating systems.
Brace design
In order to understand the mechanics of how they work, you need to start with the basic structure of braces. Any bracket system (ligature or ligatureless, external or lingual) consists of small square bracket locks that are glued to the teeth. A metal arch with shape memory is fixed to them. The process of teeth alignment occurs because the arch, which repeats the shape of a straight tooth row, is placed in the grooves of the brackets and gradually returns to its original position, pulling the teeth behind it.
The traditional way of securing the arch to the bracket grooves — is with ligatures — small elastic bands or wire rings. The arch is first placed in the recess in the middle of the lock, and then the elastic band is placed on 4 hooks around the perimeter of the bracket and holds the arch in the groove.
Self-ligating braces — this is a new generation of orthodontic systems — with a more complex bracket device, but without additional devices in the form of ligature rings. The bracket-lock in its device has a recess for the arch and a cover that securely closes the arch in the groove.
How self-ligating braces work
Having a flap right in the bracket design — is not only a convenience for the orthodontist during arch changes, but also a slightly different mechanics of the whole system. In ligature braces, the rings tie the arch very tightly to the groove of the bracket, preventing it from moving. Consequently, in order for the arch to align the teeth, it must additionally overcome a significant amount of frictional force with the bracket and ligature. Thus, active ligating increases the pressure on the teeth and the force of impact.
In self-ligating braces, the arch is not pressed tightly against the walls of the groove, but slides freely in it without additional friction, while not falling out due to the lid. Bite alignment occurs due to weak forces — more natural and physiological. This makes the treatment more comfortable, without excessive stress on the bone tissue and periodontium.
Comparing self-ligating and ligature braces*
Types of self-ligating braces
Based on materials:
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Metal braces. The most inexpensive and versatile self-ligating system. Metal braces are small in size and quite reliable — can withstand chewing, changing arches. Metal braces are easy to care for and you don't have to give up colorful products.
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Ceramic braces. Aesthetic transparent systems for discreet treatment. The locks are slightly larger than metal locks, but blend in with the enamel and are not conspicuous. Ceramic is not as strong as metal, so metal locks are placed on molars (back teeth).
Often, for the best combination of price and aesthetics, patients choose combination braces: clear — up and metal — down.
By manufacturer:
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Damon (3MX, Q, Clear). One of the most famous self-ligating braces. They provide effective and comfortable treatment due to their compact size, precision and modern technology.
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Clarity SL. Ceramic braces with metal groove from the American brand 3M Unitek.
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H4. Small metal braces with a low profile.
Orthodontists recommend
Indications for self-ligating braces
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Improper bite — a misalignment of the teeth.
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Crowding of teeth, tremors (gaps) and diastema between teeth.
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Retentive (non-erupted) permanent teeth.
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The wrong ratio of the jaws.
Self-ligating systems are indicated even in complex clinical cases and can sometimes solve them without oral surgery and removal of healthy teeth.
Contraindications to self-ligating braces
Absolute contraindications (when treatment should not be performed):
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Diseases of the immune and endocrine systems, diabetes mellitus, oncology, mental disorders, blood diseases/
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Bone abnormalities. In order to move teeth, the bone tissue must be healthy and able to withstand the stresses of orthodontic treatment.
Relative contraindications (in which treatment can be carried out, but under the additional supervision of a specialist or after the problem is eliminated):
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Periodontal diseases.
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Implants or crowns. Implants may prevent the teeth from moving as planned, in which case the treatment will be a compromise. Braces can be placed on crowns, but there is a risk that they will lose their original appearance after the teeth are moved.
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Caries or inflammatory processes in the oral cavity.
Installation of self-ligating braces
Self-ligating systems are fixed to the patient's teeth in the same way as conventional ligature braces. The teeth must be prepared before they can be fitted. To make the surface more suitable for bonding the bracket, the tooth is etched with a special compound. After a few seconds of action, the product is washed off with water, and the tooth is thoroughly dried. Orthodontic adhesive is applied to the dry clean enamel. Then the brackets are glued to the tooth.
The traditional method of retention — gluing locks one after another to each tooth, one at a time. A more modern method — indirect fixation, in which an individual mouth guard with braces is prepared in advance, and at the time of installation, the braces are transferred simultaneously to the entire tooth row. After the braces are placed on the teeth, the adhesive is fixed with a light lamp.
Next, the orthodontist installs the arch by sliding it into the grooves of each bracket. This moment of fixation differs significantly from ligature braces. In the self-ligating system, the arch is easily closed by the lock slides, while in the conventional system, you have to put a ligature on each lock.
Duration of treatment with self-ligating braces
Self-ligating systems — a more advanced and comfortable design for the patient and the doctor. Due to the soft forces and the inclusion of the muscular apparatus, the alignment of teeth is faster, physiological and more easily detailed. On average, the treatment time on these systems is 20% less than on ligature systems, i.e. 1-2 years. At the same time, fewer visits to the orthodontist are required, as there are no ligatures that require regular replacement.
Konfidencia Aesthetic Orthodontics Clinic works with Damon Q and Clear self-ligating braces. According to our patients' feedback — these are the most comfortable to care for and wear systems with impressive results.
Self-adjusting braces
Damon's self-ligating system is sometimes referred to with the consonant word «self-regulating».
The word «self-ligating» is made up of two other words: «self» and «ligating». Ligating» in orthodontics — is a method of connecting the arch and the bracket itself. In ligature braces, the ligature is held together by a ligature that holds the arch, while in self-ligating braces, the arch is held together by the bracket itself, thanks to a built-in cap.
Can such braces be called self-adjusting? In part, yes. Because the principle of passive self-ligating is based on minimizing the friction of the arch on the bracket groove — due to a freer sliding of the arch in the groove without the additional force of ligatures. Thus, these braces affect the teeth more gently, ensuring physiologic changes in the bone tissue.
- A detailed treatment plan in 1.5 hours
- Planning according to the concept of accelerated treatment
- Personal curator's help
Cost of self-ligating braces
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