Let’s face it, no one likes crooked teeth. Most people have no problem wearing teeth braces to straighten their teeth and align the position of their jaw. However, we all wish braces were less conspicuous and exposed than conventional metal ones. Orthodontic treatments have progressed much and have since provided a solution in the form of self-ligating braces. Today, we’ll learn what they are and how they’re better.
What are self-ligating braces?
The self-ligating braces which are famously known as “Damon”, are said by their manufacturers to be more comfortable and quicker than conventional ones. They can straighten teeth without colorful rubber bands using brackets and an archwire. The brackets are unique and able to 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 get 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. Reach out to Stellar Dental for a free consultation on all your dental issues.
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.
They are a good therapy 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.
The process of getting self-ligating braces
Before the treatment
It is essential to get your teeth cleaned professionally before getting the braces. If you have other oral issues (such as periodontal issues or tooth cavity), your orthodontist may advise taking care of these problems before getting braces.
First visit
Your dentist will take photographic records, dental impressions of your teeth and digital x-rays.
Installing braces
Dentists use a cheek retractor when placing dental braces to keep the teeth dry and visible. Afterward, an etchant will be used to prepare the tooth surface for bonding.
Dentists use a special adhesive to attach the braces to your teeth, keeping them in place for the duration of your therapy. A curing light sets the bond and hardens the cement.
The orthodontist then passes an archwire through the braces. If you have self-ligating braces, you don’t need any bands. The clips are closed when the archwire has been put into the slots. The next appointment is planned after the patient receives instructions on using and maintaining the braces.
Self-ligating braces pros
The lack of rubber bands provides the following benefits:
- Braces are less noticeable when there are fewer accents and colors (They also come in clear brackets).
- Food is less likely to become stuck in the brackets, making brushing and flossing easier.
- Smaller brackets provide greater comfort.
- Shorter office visits and no replacement of rubber bands
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. Other benefits include:
Less friction
With self-ligating braces, there is less friction, which results in less enamel and tooth degradation.
Easy to clean
These braces have fewer attachments and components than conventional braces, leaving relatively few spaces for plaque to accumulate.
Lower pressure
The self-ligating mechanism is less unpleasant since the pressure is dispersed more evenly over the teeth.
Aesthetics
The less noticeable and more aesthetically pleasing clear brackets blend in with the color of your teeth naturally.
More rapid treatment
Compared to conventional braces, the typical treatment period is much shorter. Another major benefit is the fact that fewer checkups are necessary.
Self-ligating braces cons
- It might provide less precise motions due to the bracket design
- Complex cases could be more expensive than conventional braces
- Rotating larger teeth may require larger brackets, which may be less effective
In more difficult situations, it may not be as effective at exerting pressure as the conventional metal type does, providing the orthodontist with less precision. Additionally, it may also be less successful than the conventional one with larger brackets due to the smaller size of the brackets.
Due to a higher propensity for breakage, treatment times may be longer. The “locking door” of the self-ligating brackets is susceptible to breaking or becoming loose, necessitating repair and extending treatment times.
Clarifying self-ligating braces
A mold or a 3D scan is made when you visit the experienced dentists at Stellar Dental for treatment to help further plan your orthodontic care. Your mouth is considered in the exact design and sizing of the braces.
Contrary to conventional braces, self-ligating braces don’t require rubber bands to hold the primary archwire in place. They are specialized braces that use clips or spring-loaded doors that operate similarly to metal doors. The sliding mechanism gradually moves the teeth into alignment.
Do self-ligating braces hurt, or are they comfortable?
Self-ligating braces, like conventional ones, can cause pain or discomfort. This could happen more frequently, right after getting them or an adjustment visit. If the wearer maintains good dental hygiene while wearing them, it may occasionally be less painful than the conventional type.
A 2014 study compared the quality of life of 150 individuals wearing either 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 between the two was not statistically significant.
Are there any risks or precautions?
The use of self-ligating braces carries several possible risks. The failure of brackets is one among them. Wear and tear could result from self-ligating brackets being opened and shut repeatedly. As a result, they might not remain closed as well. The number of appointments and potential length of treatment will increase if the bracket needs to be replaced.
Similar to standard braces, this type have additional risks as well, some of which are as follows:
Dental decay. Any form of braces might become clogged with food particles. 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
What are the self-ligating braces price?
Self-ligating braces typically cost a bit more than the conventional type. Although orthodontic appointments tend to be slightly shorter due to the absence of rubber bands, the cost is comparable because the treatment is generally the same.
The factors that affect the cost are the amount of correction required and the overall length of your treatment. Furthermore, prices may differ between different orthodontists.
An orthodontist could provide a payment schedule to make your treatment more manageable. Ask your orthodontist whether they offer payment plans and, if so, what kinds are available if you’re interested in using one.
The total cost of this treatment at Stellar Dental is RM6000 for 12 – 18 months of treatment duration. Contact us to learn of our latest offers here.
The price usually covers every facet of the procedure, including the pre-treatment evaluation, which may include x-rays and orthodontic visits, as well as all supplies utilized, including brackets, archwires, and routine office visits. Your additional retainer care may be necessary since not all orthodontists include retainers in the treatment price.
This treatment is frequently covered in part by insurance; inquire with your insurance company about using insurance to cover a portion of your orthodontic treatment.
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.
