The Benefits of Self-Ligating Braces

Need braces, but not ready for either traditional braces or Invisalign? Self-ligating braces might just be your answer. Keep reading to find out how they work.

Braces are braces, right? Not so. When Invisalign came along a few years ago, the clear plastic trays were an advancement that offered obvious advantages over traditional braces for some patients.

But regular metal braces, there’s not much you can do to make them any more advanced, right? As it turns out, there is something you can do.

Self-ligating braces take away some of the complexity and stress of traditional braces. They’re a faster, easier process for you, and they happen to be one of our specialties here at Montclair Orthodontics.

What are self-ligating braces?

All types of braces straighten your teeth through a process of applying gentle, consistent pressure over time. The pressure is what moves each tooth.

For instance, Invisalign trays apply the pressure with a series of slightly different trays every couple of weeks, gradually moving your teeth.

Traditional braces do this with a metal bracket affixed to each tooth and an archwire that runs through each bracket to connect them all together. This system guides the movement of your teeth into the correct position.

The pressure comes from a series of metal ties and elastic bands that attach the archwire to the bracket.

Self-ligating braces have more advanced brackets than those used for traditional wire braces. They include a built-in clip or sliding mechanism that applies pressure to the archwire without the need for any additional ties or bands.

This more modern design allows the archwires connecting the brackets to move more freely.

At Montclair Orthodontics, we use industry-leading Damon braces, which offer a choice between clear and metal brackets. With more than 10,000 patients treated in the last 15 years, Dr. Chad Watts is a preferred provider for Damon.

What are the benefits?

If you’re about to be one of the 4 million Americans wearing braces, you should consider the benefits of self-ligating braces compared to traditional braces:

Shorter office visits

Self-ligating brackets are easier and quicker to adjust, reducing your in-office time.

Fewer office visits

You’ll likely need fewer adjustment appointments because self-ligating braces are easier and faster to adjust than those using elastic bands.

Faster treatment time

Because the pressure is more consistent and predictable, your overall treatment may take less time than typical with traditional braces.

Easier cleaning

Compared to traditional braces, self-ligating braces include fewer individual components that could trap food.

More comfortable

The pressure applied by these braces is gentler, which causes less irritation and soreness.

Are they right for me?

Self-ligating braces work well for most patients who are opting for metal braces over invisible trays.

However, they may not be effective for severe misalignment or bite issues. We must also ensure you aren’t having problems with active gum disease before trying any type of braces.

Want to find out more about self-ligating braces? Our team at Montclair Orthodontics is here to help. To schedule a consultation, call our Oakland office or use our online booking tool to choose your time.