Self-ligating braces are a type of orthodontic treatment that is similar to conventional braces, but with one major difference.
Whereas traditional braces use elastic bands to secure the wire to brackets, self-ligating braces have a built-in sliding mechanism that holds the wire and allows it to adjust on its own as the teeth move.
As such, these braces offer benefits over conventional orthodontic treatment—and may be just what your child’s smile needs for straighter and healthier teeth.
Potentially Reduce Treatment Time With Fewer Adjustment Sessions
Although self-ligating braces still require orthodontic visits, there are fewer sessions needed. In addition, each time an adjustment is done with conventional braces, the elastic bands must be replaced, which takes time. With self-ligating braces, there’s no elastic that needs to be replaced, so the visits themselves will be shorter.
In addition, self-ligating braces move teeth more efficiently, providing better control of tooth rotation compared to conventional brackets. As such, they may help reduce treatment time as well [1]. Combined with fewer visits to your orthodontist, self-litigating braces can be more convenient for both you and your child.
Easier to Maintain Oral Hygiene
One of the drawbacks of traditional braces is that oral hygiene can be challenging to maintain, especially for children, as food can get stuck around the brackets and the elastic bands and require flossing aids or special brushes to remove.
However, with self-ligating braces, there’s no elastic, so the brackets and wires themselves are generally easier to clean [2]. This is a great advantage for children, since they are still developing their oral care habits and may struggle to keep their teeth clean with conventional braces.
Less Pain and Discomfort in a More Discreet Treatment
Patients who receive orthodontic treatment via self-ligating braces report less pain and discomfort than those with regular braces [3]. In addition, self-litigating braces have a lower profile and tend to be less obvious than conventional braces, especially since they do not have elastic ties.
So not only can this form of treatment help your child be more comfortable, but it can also help them be more confident while they are getting their teeth straightened.
With less treatment time, fewer appointments, and a more comfortable and convenient process for your child, self-ligating braces may be the best choice to straighten your child’s teeth so they can have a beautiful smile.
Learn More About Self-Litigating Braces
Does your child need braces? If so, talk to your orthodontist about whether self-ligating braces would be the right choice for their treatment. This form of treatment may be just what your child needs for a straighter smile!
Sources:
1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7072093/
2. https://bbo.org.br/bbo/files/bibliografia/artigos/5_Systematic_review_of_self-
ligating_brackets.pdf
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4151365/
