Self-ligating braces

Self-ligating braces are defined as "a [dental] brace, which generally utilizes a permanently installed, moveable component to entrap the archwire".Self-ligating brackets have also been designed which do not require a movable component to hold the wire in place.^[1] Self-ligating braces may be classified into two categories: Passive and Active.^[2]

These braces were typically made from stainless steel but, in some cases, are available in ceramic or polycarbonate.^[3]

Similarities and differences from conventional braces

One of the most significant differences from conventional dental braces is the absence of elastic ligature (bands or ties). Self-ligating braces typically are smaller and more aesthetic since a metal door is required to hold wires in place (this prevents "invisible" or clear options of these braces, with the exception of 3M Unitek who have devised a hybrid bracket called the "Smartclip"). They also tend to stand off the teeth further toward the lips and cheeks. The ties on this type of brace are used to hold the archwire in place. The self-ligating braces uses a slide mechanism to hold the archwire, thus reducing the amount of pressure exerted on the teeth. However, there are many similarities to typical braces, such as the fitting on such appliances; self-ligating braces are glued onto the teeth and are not removable until treatment is complete. Regular cleaning is also essential for effective treatment and desirable results. The consumption of too much sugar (in food, and especially drinks) and poor dental hygiene can result in demineralisation which can lead to permanent damage, dental caries (decay).

Analysis has also shown treatment times are longer when self ligated orthodontic brackets are used compared to conventional orthodontic brackets.^[4]

References

1. Braun, Thomas (February 25, 2014). "Static Self Ligating Orthodontic Bracket".
2. 2009 Chapter 7: Orthodontic Appliances
   Jeryl D. English, Timo Peltomäki, Kate Pahm-Litschel (Editors) Mosley's Orthodontic Review
   P. Emile Rossouw - St. Louis: Elsewhere Mosey p. 87
3. Cacciafesta, Vittorio; et al. (2003). "Evaluation of friction of stainless steel and esthetic self-ligating brackets in various bracket-archwire combinations" (PDF). American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics 124 (4): 395–402. doi:10.1016/S0889-5406(03)00504-3. PMID 14560269.
4. Papageorgiou; et al. (2014). "Clinical effects of pre-adjusted edgewise orthodontic brackets: a systematic review and meta-analysis.". Euro J orthod. 124 (4): 350–363. doi:10.1093/ejo/cjt064. PMID 24062378.