Modern orthodontic treatments offer more choices than ever for straightening your teeth and improving your smile. One of the newer options we get lots of questions about is self-ligating braces.
Self-ligating braces are designed to move your teeth more efficiently, potentially reducing overall treatment time compared to traditional braces.
Walied Touni, DDS, MSD, and our team at Touni Orthodontics in Sunnyvale, California, offer a full range of advanced braces options. We can help you understand which one may work best for your needs and goals.
If you’re thinking about self-ligating braces to cut down on treatment time, here’s what you should know.
Self-ligating braces look similar to traditional metal braces, but there’s one key difference: Instead of using elastic bands (ligatures) to hold the wire in place, self-ligating braces use a small built-in clip or door.
This clip lets the wire slide more freely as it moves your teeth into alignment. The design of self-ligating braces helps reduce friction and allows for more natural tooth movement that’s less painful. Many patients find self-ligating braces more comfortable than traditional braces because there’s less pressure on your teeth during adjustments.
Orthodontic treatment is highly personalized, and Dr. Touni develops a treatment plan based on your specific needs. If you choose self-ligating braces, we cement the brackets on your teeth in a similar process to traditional braces and thread a wire through the clips.
Over time, the wire gradually moves your teeth into their proper places. We monitor your progress and adjust the system as needed to make sure your treatment plan stays on track.
You may even find that self-ligating braces require fewer office visits because the wire adjustments are simpler and less frequent.
Plus, self-ligating braces can make it easier to keep your teeth clean. They don’t have elastic bands to trap food and plaque, so you’re better able to clean your teeth and your braces with brushing and flossing at home.
The exact timeline of treatment depends on the complexity of your case and how well your teeth respond to treatment. However, it’s possible for self-ligating braces to deliver straighter smiles faster than traditional braces in some cases.
Self-ligating braces can be an excellent option for many people, but they aren’t always the best choice for every smile. Factors such as the severity of your misalignment, your bite, and your personal treatment goals all play a role in determining the right approach and anticipating how long treatment might take.
This is why scheduling an orthodontic consultation is so important. At Touni Orthodontics, we take the time to evaluate your needs carefully and explain all your options. We can also discuss potential treatment timelines so you can make an informed decision about your orthodontic care.
Ready to find out which type of braces is best for you? Schedule a consultation at Touni Orthodontics by calling our office or booking an appointment online today.
