Many parents ask us how braces have changed compared to the days when they had their treatment.

SELF-LIGATING BRACES

There are many technological advances in orthodontics, and new improvements come up all the time. Self-ligating braces are one of these technological innovations that are available at Beach Braces to make orthodontic treatment easier and better for our patients.

To explain how they work, let’s first look at how traditional braces work. Brackets that are placed on the teeth receive an archwire that is held in place with ”ties.” These ties can be coloured elastic “o” rings or steel twist ties. These ties control the tension of the wire. They are tightened to activate the wire and cause tooth movement.

Self-ligating braces eliminate the need for ties. They have built-in specialized clips to hold archwires in place that are miniaturized to fit into the low profile of the bracket. This allows the archwire to move freely within the brackets, making tooth movement efficient and comfortable.

BENEFITS OF SELF-LIGATING BRACES

Smaller and less noticeable – Technology allows for miniaturization of braces so that they are less noticeable and more comfortable to the lips and cheeks

Better Hygiene – Elastic “o” rings of conventional braces are plaque traps that arguably may be more prone to causing permanent white marks (“white-spot lesions”), which will stay on the teeth long after the braces have come off, or cavities on the teeth. Self-ligating braces are easier to clean, but good brushing is still a very important component of orthodontic treatment no matter what type of braces there are on the teeth.

Efficient tooth movement for shorter treatment time – Movement of teeth involves sliding of the braces on the archwire and vice versa. Elastic ties act as brake pads, slowing this process down. Self-ligating braces generate less friction when sliding on an archwire, which can speed up the process of orthodontic treatment. Dr. Dask and his graduate students from U of T have actually published some articles on this topic. You can see them by clicking here.

Fewer Orthodontic Visits – Self-Ligating braces need fewer adjustments compared to traditional metal braces, reducing the number of visits to your orthodontist.

If you want to learn more about self-ligating braces, you can contact our orthodontic office, Beach Braces in Toronto. We are proud to offer self-ligating braces as part of our orthodontic services. Here at Beach Braces, we offer personalized treatments that suit your individual needs. Book your consultation today!

– Your Beach Braces Team