Essentially, Self-Ligating Braces are when the braces are attached to the tooth and a metal door on the bracket holds the archwire freely into place. This helps to move teeth naturally as they are straightened.
Unlike traditional braces, you don't need rubber bands or elastic rings to hold the orthodontic wire to the bracket. The wires are made of metal alloys and deliver a constant, gentle force to move teeth. This type of brace system isn’t a new treatment, yet their popularity has increased as companies have begun marketing directly to the patients or consumers.
What’s the difference between Ceramic or Metal Self-Ligating Braces?
According to the American Association of Orthodontics (AAO), Self-Ligating Ceramic Braces are tooth-colored, so they’re less visible to others. They are affixed to teeth, and the wires thread through slots in the brackets. Built-in clips hold the wires to the brackets made of ceramic or porcelain materials. In comparison, Self-Ligating Metal Braces are generally made of stainless steel, and some patients may also have metal bands encircling back teeth.
