How do self-ligating braces work?

How do self-ligating braces work?
Self-ligating braces are a common way to straighten teeth. They have the advantages of easy operation and remarkable correction effects. So, how do self-ligating braces work? Let’s explore it below.

Compared with traditional braces, the biggest difference between self-ligating braces and traditional braces is the design of the locks. Traditional braces require rubber bands or metal wires to fix the dental arch to the bracket, while self-ligating braces directly fix the dental arch to the bracket through locks without any external force for reinforcement. This allows self-ligating braces to adjust the position of the dental arch more quickly while straightening the teeth.

So, how do self-ligating braces work? In fact, there are two ways to force self-ligating braces: one is spring force, and the other is power torque force.

First, let's look at spring force. In self-ligating braces, spring is a common force-increasing device. It can be fitted through slots in the bracket to move the dental arch forward. Typically, the dentist will pre-prepare the appropriate length of spring and place it into the bracket's slot before assembling the spring. When the spring falls off or needs to be replaced, the dentist will bend it into the groove where the spring is placed so that it will automatically fix itself. The advantage of spring force is that it is highly flexible and can well adapt to the adjustment needs of the teeth.

Secondly, let’s look at dynamic torque addition. Dynamic torque is another common method of applying force in self-ligating braces. Compared with springs, the effect of dynamic torque is more obvious. Generally, the dynamic moment is the moment generated by the shape of the arch wire, which causes the dental arch to force the teeth in the front-to-back direction. The advantage of dynamic torque is that it can focus on adjusting the position and angle of the teeth, making the correction effect more obvious.

Whether it is spring force or power torque force, they are all performed before opening the self-ligating braces. Typically, the dentist will select the most suitable dental arch and brackets and determine the appropriate type of spring or dynamic torque based on each patient's specific circumstances. As the correction progresses, the dentist will also adjust the force according to the patient's actual condition to achieve the best correction effect.

Generally speaking, the force-adding method of self-ligating braces includes both spring force-adding and dynamic torque force-adding. No matter which method is used, it must be carried out under the guidance of a dentist to ensure the effect and speed of correcting teeth. In addition, you need to maintain oral hygiene and avoid eating sticky and hard foods to avoid affecting the strengthening effect of braces.