Self-ligating Brackets
Metallic
One of the most important inventions of modern orthodontics are brackets Self-ligating. Unlike the products of previous generations, they do not use ligatures (Rubber bands that hold orthodontic archwires). This allows the arch to slide freely and does not require great forces to move the teeth. When ligating with rubber bands the arch wire is subject to friction and it does not have the ability to slide into it. Therefore, moving the tooth requires great forces, the use of which is not so physiological for the body, which is expressed, for example, in pain in the first days after the start of orthodontic treatment.
Self- ligating brackets practically lack this drawback, because they have very low friction between the arch and the groove. This is ensured by the design of a special closing mechanism, which keeps the arch in the groove and at the same time allows free movement.
The light forces used by self-ligating brackets better stimulate the cellular activity of the soft tissues surrounding the tooth without interrupting its blood supply. This significantly improves the condition of the periodontium, reduces painful sensations and the likelihood of injury to the mucous membrane of the lips, cheeks, and also helps to avoid complications in the treatment of dental occlusion.
Advantages and disadvantages of using conventional metal brackets:
Advantages:
Friction minimization, can reduce malocclusion correction time by 20-25%.
Reduce the number of visits to the orthodontist
They are biocompatible in most patients
Self- ligating braces are a bit easier to care for
Disadvantages:
The main disadvantage of self-ligating brackets is their price. However, with faster treatment times and fewer visits to the orthodontist
