Self ligating brackets are orthodontic brackets that have a built in way to “hold” the wire onto the tooth. Before we had self ligating brackets, each tooth had to be individually tied onto the orthodontic archwire with either an elastic or steel ligature as seen in the picture below:
Self Ligating Brackets
Self ligating brackets have a “door” that opens and closes so there is no need for the elastic or metal ligatures:
What do self ligating brackets mean for the patient? Patients will notice shorter adjustment appointments, an improved ability to clean their teeth and appliances, and often times, longer intervals between appointments!
