Traditional Braces VS. Self-Ligating Braces
Shorter treatment times. Less appointments. Less need for extractions. How is this all possible? Passive self-ligating brace system is the answer. While self-ligating braces aren’t exactly the newest in orthodontic technology, they have steadily gained steam over the recent years due to newer product material and application methods. This trend in popularity is due to the many benefits that self-ligating braces offer versus traditional braces…
Traditional Braces
Consisting of small “wings”, traditional braces hold the tooth-aligning wires in place with tight elastic ties (these are the colors you see on the braces). These elastic ties on each brace create increased friction between the brace and the wire. In order for teeth to move, the brace must slide along the wire. The elastic ties and their friction slow down this “sliding” and require higher force levels to move teeth. The result? More discomfort and slower tooth movement. Furthermore, the elastic ties lose their strength over time and their ability to hold the wire all the way in the braces. This requires more frequent appointments to replace the ties with fresh ones.
Traditional Braces Overview:
- Longer Treatment Time (patient depending)
- Increased Patient Discomfort
- Increased Number of Office Visits
- More Difficult at Home Maintenance / Cleanliness
Self-Ligating Braces
Differing from traditional braces, self-ligating braces do not have the elastic ligatures. In other words, there are no elastic “ties” or metal ties because they are simply not needed. Rather, self-ligating braces have a door mechanism that is opened and closed to hold the tooth-aligning wires. This allows for far less friction between the wire and the braces. This results in faster tooth movement because the braces are free to slide along the wire (metal bracket on metal wire). Also, this concept allows for greater freedom of tooth movement with much less discomfort. Lighter forces are utilized because of the reduction in friction between the wire and brace. With no need for the elastic ties that fade with time, the interval between appointments is much longer. Gone are the days of having to replace the elastic ties every 4-6 weeks. With our self-ligating braces, we are able to extend your appointment intervals out every 8-12 weeks. In summary, self-ligating braces are easier on your teeth, easier on your time, and achieve stunning results.
Self-ligating Braces Overview:
- Less Patient Discomfort
- Faster Treatment Results
- Less Frequent Office Visits
- Easier at Home Maintenance & Cleanliness
Schedule a Complimentary Consultation
We look forward to meeting you at your first visit to our office. During this 60-minute visit, we will help get you acquainted with our office and learn about your orthodontic treatment. No two orthodontic patients are the same, so giving you personal attention is our first priority.
With this new information in mind, Sullivan Orthodontics is pleased to offer the two best self-ligating brace systems – the Pitts 21 Pro and Pitts 21 Clear. Combining these systems with Dr. Sullivan’s aesthetic approach to orthodontic treatment allows you to achieve the wide, beautiful smile of your dreams in less time and less appointments.
Thank you taking the time to become a better version of you! It’s no secret that overall health has everything to do with your mouth, what’s in it, and how you take care of it. If you have any questions, concerns, or would like to schedule your complimentary consultation, please call (541) 749-2098.