Self-ligating braces in Weybridge

What are self-ligating braces?

Self-ligating braces are fixed braces. Like conventional braces, they use small brackets bonded to each tooth and a wire that runs through them. The difference is how the wire is held. In conventional braces, each bracket has a small elastic tie or a fine wire twisted around it. Self-ligating brackets have a built-in clip or sliding door that holds the wire instead.

The idea dates back to the 1930s, although self-ligating brackets have only become widely used in more recent years. They come in metal and in clear or ceramic versions that blend in with your teeth.

How self-ligating brackets work

Each bracket has a small door that closes over the archwire. Because there are no elastic ties, the wire can slide through the brackets with less friction as your teeth move. The clip also keeps the wire securely seated between appointments.

There are two main designs. Passive brackets hold the wire loosely within the slot. Active brackets have a spring clip that presses on the wire. Your dentist chooses the design that suits the movements your teeth need.

Benefits and drawbacks

Self-ligating braces have some practical advantages:

• There are no elastic ties to change, so adjustment appointments can be quicker.
• Without ties there are fewer places for food and plaque to collect, which can make cleaning easier.
• There are no coloured ties to pick up stains.

You may read that self-ligating braces are always faster or more comfortable than conventional braces. Research comparing the two has not consistently found a difference in overall treatment time or discomfort, so we do not promise either. The right brace is the one that suits your teeth.

The drawbacks are worth knowing too:

• Self-ligating brackets can cost more than conventional brackets.
• Even with clear brackets, the wire across your teeth is visible.
• Teeth often feel sore for a few days after the brace is fitted and after adjustments.

Who self-ligating braces suit

Fixed braces can correct crowding, gaps, rotated teeth and many bite problems. They are often chosen where teeth need more complex movement than clear aligners can achieve reliably. They also suit people who would rather not be responsible for wearing removable aligners all day.

Before recommending any brace, we examine your teeth, gums and bite. Suitability is always subject to a consultation and assessment. Gum disease and decay need treating first, because a fixed brace makes cleaning harder.

NHS braces and private braces

Many people searching for braces want to know whether they can have them on the NHS. NHS orthodontic treatment is mainly for children and young people under 18 with a clear clinical need. That need is measured on a scale called the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN). Adults rarely qualify. Treatment purely to improve appearance is not funded.

Post House Dental provides both NHS and private care, but we cannot promise NHS availability for orthodontic treatment. At your examination we can explain whether NHS treatment might be possible for you or your child. Private braces give you more choice of brace type, including self-ligating, tooth-coloured and clear aligner options. Online booking is for private appointments only.

Alternatives to self-ligating braces

• Conventional fixed braces work in the same way but use elastic ties instead of clips.
• Tooth-coloured braces use ceramic brackets that blend in with your teeth.
• Invisible braces such as Invisalign use a series of clear, removable aligners.

Our pages on adult braces and teeth straightening explain more. You may also find our article on the types of braces for teeth useful.

What happens during treatment

After your assessment we take x-rays, photographs and a digital scan. We explain the plan, the likely length of treatment and the fee in writing before you decide.

On fitting day the brackets are bonded to your teeth and the archwire is clipped in. You should not feel pain while the brackets are bonded, as no injections or drilling are usually needed. The brace often feels tight for a few days afterwards. Simple painkillers and soft food help during this time.

You then return for regular adjustments, when we check progress and change the wire as your teeth move. How long treatment takes varies widely with the problem being corrected. We give you an estimate after your assessment.

Cost of self-ligating braces

The cost of fixed braces depends on what needs correcting, how long treatment is likely to take and the type of bracket used. We give you a written quote after your assessment, before treatment starts. Retainers after treatment are listed separately on our fee list:

• Essix retainer, single arch: £160
• Essix retainers, both arches: £290
• Bonded retainer, single arch: £445
• Bonded retainers, both arches: £600
• New patient examination: £87 (including 2 radiographs + digital scan)

See our fees page for the full list. Your final fee depends on your assessment and is confirmed in a written plan first.

Aftercare and retainers

While the brace is on, clean carefully around every bracket. Small interdental brushes help between the teeth. Avoid very hard or sticky food that can knock brackets off. Our article on what to eat with braces has practical tips for the first week. Regular hygiene visits help keep your gums healthy throughout.

Once the brace comes off, teeth naturally tend to drift back. Retainers hold them in their new position. We explain how long to wear yours and how to look after them. Results vary from person to person.

Why patients choose Post House Dental

We have looked after patients in Weybridge since 1978, from The Old Post House on Heath Road. We use digital scanning and magnification. Our team are committed to postgraduate education and to evidence-based dentistry. We will explain honestly whether self-ligating braces, another type of brace or no treatment at all is the right choice for you.