Self ligating appliances have been
rising steadily in the public eye through the years as their advantages over
steel or elastomeric ligatures are being claimed by orthodontists
worldwide.
Self ligating braces are a modern
alternative to the conventional ‘train track’ metal brackets. Self ligating
means that the brace can tie itself to the main archwire. The archwire is kept
in place using small metal clips instead of elastic bands.
There are two major types of self
ligating brackets. Active and passive , although some have the combination of
features belonging to both active and passive types. The active type has a
spring clip that presses against the archwire. The clip doesn’t actively press
against the wire in the passive type. These brackets have been constantly
modified and tweaked since their introduction to overcome initial problems and
to enhance overall performance.
Long History of Self Ligating
Appliances
While it may seem like a new-world
concept, the idea of self ligating brackets came into the light in 1935 with
the Russell lock edgewise attachments. A surge in popularity in the 1990s led
to further refinement of the appliances and a large number of patents. Some of
the more trusted products are, SmartClip 2, In-Ovation C, Damon 3MX, and
DammonQ.
Self ligating Appliances have gained
the upper hand on their steel and elastomeric counterparts in terms of
overcoming problems of low efficiency, plastic deformation, discoloration,
plaque accumulation, friction and discomfort. Elastomeric models have been
studied to show a reduction in strength when placed in a simulated oral
environment. The elastic is also prone to stretching leading to a significant
loss in full bracket engagement. Unlike elastomeric ligatures, self ligating
brackets provide a secure ligation because a robust full bracket engagement is
guaranteed unless the clip or sliding mechanism fails or something causes the
bracket to debond.
Are they Effective?
Self ligating appliances, while
efficient, cannot promise any significant amounts of saved time during the initial
stages of treatment. As dental irregularity is highly unpredictable, self
ligatures may not prove a cost effective option in every single case.
Self ligating braces are an innovative
alternative for those looking for a more discreet, efficient and effective and
convenient mode of dental alignment to put a beautiful smile on their face.
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