Changes in the orthodontic industry have been radical recently!
There is a new understanding of how friction and ligation forces work to
affect tooth movement. The use of brackets with either elastic ligatures or steel wire ties is conventionally used – this will then apply pressure to the bracket and move the tooth into place with the arch wire’s guidance.
This traditional (active) ligation results in force, which then moves the teeth, can cause a little discomfort, and treatment time can be quite slow – who wants to be in braces any longer than necessary!
This is where the new passive self-ligating brackets come in – they use a slide mechanism that opens and closes, within a slot where the wire is free to glide inside. This approach apparently not only reduces friction and pressure, but can also be more comfortable for you, the patient.
Keep in mind that, being the unique individual that you are, your Orthodontist has used the braces system that best suits your needs. So no ‘if’s and buts…’ as your Orthodontist knows you and your teeth best!
Do you want to learn more? Just ask your Orthodontist!!!
