Let’s face it—no one likes crooked teeth. Most people have no problem wearing braces to straighten their teeth and align the position of their jaws. However, some of us wish braces were less conspicuous and exposed than conventional metal ones. Fortunately, self-ligating braces can solve this.
In this article, you will discover what are they and how they’re better.
What are self-ligating braces?
Self-ligating braces, famously known as “Damon” braces, are braces that can straighten teeth without colorful rubber bands. Instead, they use brackets and an archwire.
Their manufacturers claim they are more comfortable and quicker than conventional ones. The brackets are unique and can clip directly to the archwire rather than using rubber bands to link.
This results in a more efficient, discrete braces treatment that minimizes the prominence of the orthodontic apparatus. Although the wire is often metallic in color, the brackets are available in clear and metal.
As with typical metal braces, your orthodontist will attach brackets to your teeth, bend the archwire across them, and then secure it at each end with specialized metal bands that fit around your molars.
Instead of attaching the archwire to the brackets using colored rubber bands, the self-ligating brackets are made to hold the wire in a groove where the wire glides through.
Although it has been used for many years, this treatment has recently gained popularity. Self-ligating brackets have many advantages that patients find appealing.
Who can wear self-ligating braces?
Anyone who desires straight teeth with a comfortable, effective orthodontic technique may consider getting it as a treatment option.
They work well for people who want to finish their treatment as soon as possible, desire fewer office visits, and don’t mind how apparent it is to have braces on their teeth.
It may be right for you or not, depending on your condition, treatment plan, and financial situation.
Talk to your orthodontist if you want to know if they are a good choice for you.
What conditions can be treated?
Self-ligating braces can resolve numerous orthodontic issues. This treatment works well for issues like crowding, gaps, severe overjet, and overbite.Â
They are a good choice for severe situations that might not respond well to clear aligner treatments like the Invisalign system or combined with Invisalign clear aligners.
For example, in the case of impacted teeth and suppose the patient wants a more covert orthodontic treatment, the impacted teeth can be pulled to the correct position using self-ligating braces and then treated with clear aligners.
Process of getting self-ligating braces
Before the Treatment:
- Professional Cleaning: Getting your teeth professionally cleaned before getting braces is essential.
- Addressing Oral Issues: Any existing oral issues, such as periodontal disease or cavities, should be treated before the braces are applied.
First Visit:
- Records and Impressions: The orthodontist will take photographic records, dental impressions, and digital x-rays of your teeth.
Dental x-ray.
Installing Braces:
- Preparation: A cheek retractor is used to keep the teeth dry and visible. An etchant is applied to prepare the tooth surface for bonding.
- Attaching Braces: Special adhesive is used to attach the braces to the teeth, followed by a curing light to set the bond and harden the cement.
- Archwire and Clips: The orthodontist threads an archwire through the braces. For self-ligating braces, no bands are needed as the clips are closed over the archwire.
Post-Installation:
- Instructions: The orthodontist will provide instructions on using and maintaining the braces, and schedule the next appointment.
Benefits of self-ligating braces
The pros of self-ligating braces include:
- Less Friction: Reduced friction leads to less enamel and tooth degradation.
- Easy to Clean: Fewer attachments and components mean fewer spaces for plaque to accumulate.
- Lower Pressure: Evenly dispersed pressure makes them less unpleasant.
- Aesthetics: Clear brackets are less noticeable and blend naturally with your teeth.
- More Rapid Treatment: Shorter treatment period and fewer checkups compared to conventional braces.
You need not worry about a significant cost rise in exchange for the advantages of self-ligating braces because the price is just slightly higher than that of the conventional metal type.
Self-ligating braces cons
The disadvantages of self-ligating braces are:
- Higher Cost: Self-ligating braces are generally more expensive than traditional braces.
- Limited Availability: Not all orthodontists offer self-ligating braces.
- Discomfort During Adjustment: Initial adjustments can still cause discomfort, similar to traditional braces.
- Not Suitable for All Cases: May not be effective for treating all types of orthodontic issues.
- Potential for Breakage: The self-ligating mechanism can be more prone to breakage or malfunction compared to traditional braces.
- Appearance of Metal Brackets: Metal versions are still visible, although less so than traditional metal braces.
Do self-ligating braces hurt?
Like conventional braces, self-ligating braces can cause pain or discomfort.
This could happen more frequently, right after getting them or during an adjustment visit.
If the wearer maintains good dental hygiene while wearing them, they may occasionally be less painful than the conventional type.
A 2014 study compared the quality of life of 150 individuals wearing conventional or self-ligating braces.
While those wearing the latter type felt less pain than those wearing the prior type, researchers discovered that this difference was not statistically significant.
Risks of self-ligating braces
One potential risk associated with self-ligating braces is bracket failure. Repeated opening and closing of self-ligating brackets can lead to wear and tear, causing them to not remain securely closed.
This issue may increase the number of appointments and potentially extend the length of treatment if brackets need to be replaced.
Similar to standard braces, this type has additional risks as well, some of which are as follows:
- Dental decay. Any type of braces might become clogged with food particles, and plaque accumulation raises the danger of tooth decay.
- Reversion. If you don’t use your retainer after removing your braces, your teeth may start to shift back to their original positions.
Traditional metal braces versus self-ligating braces
Traditional metal braces and self-ligating braces are comparable; however, the latter differ significantly in that they don’t use rubber bands to link the brackets to the archwire.
Instead, the archwire is locked into position against the brackets by a small spring-loaded door that shuts over the brackets instead of using rubber bands.
Traditional metal braces must be frequently tightened to align the teeth correctly. The sliding mechanism in self-ligating braces tightens with time on its own. Consequently, your teeth are gently straightened and require fewer office visits.
Also read: Invisible Braces: Price, Procedure and Pros & Cons
Self-ligating braces price
Self-ligating braces in Malaysia typically cost between RM6,000 to RM12,000, depending on several factors including the complexity of the case and the specific orthodontic practice​​​​. This price range reflects the comprehensive nature of the treatment, which usually includes the pre-treatment evaluation, dental impressions, x-rays, the braces themselves, and routine follow-up visits.
Considerations for Cost
- Complexity of Correction: More complex orthodontic issues may require longer treatment times and additional adjustments, increasing the overall cost.
- Duration of Treatment: Although self-ligating braces often result in shorter treatment periods compared to traditional braces, the specific length of treatment will affect the total cost.
- Orthodontist Fees: Fees can vary between orthodontists, so it’s important to consult with a few to get a detailed quote.
- Location: Prices may also vary depending on the location of the orthodontic clinic. Clinics in more urban areas might charge higher fees compared to those in less populated regions.
Payment Options
Many orthodontic clinics, including Stellar Dental, offer payment plans to make the treatment more manageable. It’s advisable to ask your orthodontist about available payment options and plans that can spread the cost over the duration of the treatment​.
At Stellar Dental, the total cost of self-ligating braces is from RM6000 for 12-18 months of treatment. You can choose to pay in installments of RM200/ month only.
Click here to learn about Stellar Dental’s braces offers:
Final words
Self-ligating braces hold the archwire in place with the help of an internal mechanism in the bracket, which may result in fewer orthodontist visits, simpler cleaning, and less discomfort for the wearer. This contrasts with conventional braces, which fasten the archwire with elastic ties or metal wires.
Consult Stellar Dental if you’re interested in getting your teeth fixed. The highly experienced team of dentists and orthodontists will help you decide the most suitable and effective solution for your dental issues. Book an appointment by clicking the button below now.
Reference:
- Self ligating braces price: Blog Malaysia
- Does self-ligating braces hurt less: NCBI
