Traditional braces comprise wires, brackets, and an elastic band. Metal braces were the primary choice to straighten your teeth. However, the field of orthodontics has dramatically transformed in recent years.
There are many alternative techniques when it comes to straightening your teeth. With constant advances in self-ligating braces, you can have a better, easier alignment with your teeth!
What are self-ligating braces?
The self-ligating braces are less painful than traditional braces, and, generally, they provide a quicker result. They are an advanced model of traditional braces. They still use archwires and brackets, but they don’t have elastics like traditional braces.
Self-ligating braces use the slide device (sliding clips) to keep the wire securely, allowing the teeth to move more freely, speedily, and comfortably. The sliding mechanism helps to straighten the teeth through gradual movements.
Who could benefit from self-ligating braces?
Anyone who requires orthodontic treatment can choose an auto-ligating system. People of all ages can rely on Self-ligating braces to align their teeth.
Self-ligating braces can treat all kinds of dental issues and create an ideally aligned smile. These include issues like:
- Tooth Crowding
- Overbite
- Underbite
- Tooth spacing
The self-ligating system can be approximately six months faster than traditional braces, which can require between 6 and 30 months based on the complexity of each patient.
The types of self-ligating braces
There are two kinds of self-ligating braces: the “passive” systems and the “active” devices. They differ from one another in the design and purpose of the enclosure.
Passive system
The box is equipped with a strong sliding clip through which the cable moves. However, it doesn’t hold it. Thus, the wire can move more freely between brackets.
Active system
An active system doesn’t put tension on the wire to align the teeth but puts pressure on the arch of the dental alignment.
How to place the self-ligating brace?
The dentist performs a thorough cleansing and drying of the teeth.
- Apply an adhesive both to the tooth and frame.
- It is then glued to the tooth to fix it.
- Installs the archwire and adjusts it.
The Advantages of self-ligating braces
- The device is slimmer in size, lighter and more discrete.
- Patients can enjoy more hygiene in their teeth.
- Transparent self-ligating rings look more attractive.
- The follow-up process is faster, as the orthodontist has to adjust the arch and not stop at each elastic.
- Treatment takes less time as the frame provides more flexibility to the arch, making the procedure less painful.
The Disadvantages of self-ligating braces
- The option of metal, though smaller, isn’t as discrete.
- Clear bands have an archwire made of metal.
- Dental hygiene is improved. However, some areas remain inaccessible to brushing or flossing.
- A visit to the orthodontist is required to adjust the appliance.
The cost of self-ligating braces in the UK
These appliances in the UK are approximately around £3500 up to £4500. The cost could vary based on the nature of the case and the dental clinic.
Book your appointment and get the peace of mind.