Types of brackets according to the patient’s needs

Dr. Navarro, a specialist in dentistry, explains the advances in orthodontics, specifically in brackets. The doctor explains the advantages of this new system for the patient.

Brackets are currently the most widely used type of orthodontics, since their advantages include the ability to perform multiple dental movements. The latest novelty in this sector are self-ligating brackets, which, unlike conventional brackets, which require metal or elastic ligatures to attach the archwire to the brackets, self-ligating brackets have a small gate in the front that holds the archwire in place.

How self-ligating brackets work versus conventional procedures

In conventional orthodontics, elastic rings lose strength over time, change color and retain a lot of food and bacterial plaque, so they are changed often. In addition, they generate a lot of friction, which forces the patient to use more intense forces to move the teeth, generating discomfort or a sensation of pressure.

Self-ligating brackets have low friction, so the force exerted by the patient is gentle and progressive, which allows for a more comfortable and gradual treatment. Like any other type of bracket, there are also aesthetic brackets, which combine all the advantages of self-ligating brackets and the aesthetics of porcelain.

Advantages of self-ligating brackets

  • In the vast majority of cases there is no need for tooth extraction. By exerting lighter forces on the teeth, a greater range of tooth movement is achieved.
  • Frictionless and with less pressure, treatment is more comfortable and pleasant. The passive retention system prevents the appliance from exerting excessive forces and causing discomfort.
  • The optimal force needed for the teeth to move is exerted in a much more efficient, fast and physiological way.
  • Treatment time is reduced.
  • The need for frequent check-ups is also reduced and these are much shorter.
  • The treatment not only produces an improvement at the dental level, it also enhances the beauty of the face by giving more support to the soft tissues of the lower third of the face in a natural way.