Self-ligating Brackets

Self-ligating brackets, commonly called “braces”, help align the teeth using gentle pressure. Over the course of the treatment, this pressure helps modify the alignment of the teeth in accordance with a strategy determined by the orthodontist. With traditional braces, the brackets are attached to an orthodontic wire with elastic bands, called “ligatures”, necessitating more pressure in order to move the teeth. More pressure equals more discomfort for the patient.

Unlike traditional braces, self-ligating brackets are attached to the orthodontic wire using a system of clips, rather than ligatures (thus, the term “self-ligating”). Once clipped to the wire, the bracket is fixed in place by simply fastening a built-in clasp. In other words: having no elastics means having fewer problems. It’s as simple as that!

One of the primary advantages of today’s self-ligating brackets is that they facilitate good oral hygiene. Without elastic bands, there’s more clearance around the brackets, making it easier to clean your teeth appropriately.

The absence of external fixation enables reducing the duration of the orthodontic treatment by minimizing friction between the bracket and the wire. This innovation makes it possible to achieve the treatment goals more quickly, which means fewer visits to the orthodontist and fewer adjustments to the appliance.

Lastly, the type of orthodontic bracket used by Dr. Normand Bach (the SPEED system) is nearly three times smaller than the other available options. Thanks to these new brackets, the pressure on the teeth is much gentler, enabling the patient to benefit from the treatment without the disadvantages related to brackets that are attached to the orthodontic wire using elastic bands.

Nevertheless, Dr. Bach can still apply coloured elastics for those patients who want them.

The length of the treatment may vary from eight months to three years, depending on the complexity of the case. During treatment, you’ll need to set aside a little time in your schedule for your orthodontist appointments. In fact, Dr. Bach may want to see you every 6 to 12 weeks so he can change the wires and verify that your treatment is progressing as planned.

If you have any questions, remember that the person most qualified to answer them is, of course, your orthodontist!