Self-ligating braces are braces that utilize little metal doors to hold the wires in place instead of elastic ties. Self-ligating braces are more comfortable than traditional braces. Fixed braces usually use brackets and wires which are attached to the teeth and through applying pressure the teeth should move into position.

However, the use of different materials and methods, there are now a range of different fixed braces available such as lingual braces, ceramic braces, traditional braces and self-ligating braces.

Self-ligating braces over recent years has been the most popular choice for patients. So why are self-ligating braces so popular?

Advantages of Self-ligating Braces:

1.      Although self-ligating braces are made of metal, usually the metal materials used is imported and produced exquisitely. Also single brackets are smaller which means once they are fitted onto the teeth they are not as obvious as traditional brackets, so aesthetically speaking they are better looking.  

2.      Self-ligating braces do not need to be fixed for each bracket like traditional braces. The self-ligating brackets which are little metal doors hold the wire in place which is more convenient for orthodontists and the control can be more precise, and the overall treatment time can be shortened accordingly.

3.      Self-ligating braces are more expensive than traditional braces but compared with ceramic braces, clear aligners and lingual braces it’s still cheaper. Self-ligating braces cost between 10,000RMB to 20,000RMB and can be paid in installments which makes it more affordable for most patients.

Of course, self-ligating braces have their advantages and in general is a classic choice for most patients. However, braces themselves are just a form of orthodontic treatment, the skills and techniques of a orthodontist are also required to create a orthodontic treatment plan which can provide the best results.