Self-Ligating Braces in Florida
Self-ligating braces are an increasingly popular option with our patients, especially with accelerated orthodontics. Would you like to have straighter teeth? How about fixing a gap between your teeth? Braces are a great option for creating a beautiful smile. At Busciglio Smiles, we offer the best in orthodontic technologies to make your teeth look and feel great!
Self-Ligating Braces
Braces come in a variety of styles, including traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, or self-ligating braces. Residents in suburbs of Tampa, including Brandon, Florida, can benefit from the technological advances in orthodontics we offer at Busciglio Smiles.
Self-ligating braces are a somewhat newer technology when it comes to braces, so not a lot of people know about them. However, they can potentially be a great option for you or your child.
What Are Self-Ligating Braces?
Self-ligating braces have actually been available for a while, but have only become more well-known recently with more patient adoption. You may already know someone with self-ligating braces but not realize that they are different from traditional braces. This is because self-ligating braces look and act similarly to traditional metal braces.
Like conventional braces, self-ligating braces use brackets that are adhered to the front of the teeth. The main difference is that self-ligating braces use special spring-loaded clips instead of metal ties or rubber bands. These clips connect the brackets and work to gently draw the teeth into the correct position.
Self-ligating braces can help not only with straightening teeth but also with correcting problems with bites. They are often used for orthodontic patients with special circumstances.
Who Can Wear Self-Ligating Braces?
Self-ligating braces can be used in both adults and children. However, since no rubber bands or elastics are used, which come in various color combinations, children may prefer traditional metal braces for their color options. You can, however, choose self-ligating brackets that are clear instead of metal for a more discreet look.
The Benefits of Self-Ligating Braces
Self-ligating braces work very much like traditional metal braces and both look pretty similar when installed in the mouth. Both types of braces use brackets to serve as the foundation for the gentle tensile forces used to help realign the teeth.
The main difference between self-ligating braces and traditional braces are the spring-loaded clips or doors used in self-ligating appliances. These offer the following benefits:
Self-ligating braces are much easier to clean than traditional metal braces. The elastics and rubber bands used in conventional braces can easily trap food particles and cause plaque buildup. Thus, self-ligated braces can be better for your overall oral hygiene.
Self-ligating braces do not require tightening by an orthodontist, because they are self-tightening. Because of this, your appointments at the orthodontist will go by much more quickly, and you may not need to come in as frequently. (Note: for some types of self-ligating braces, you will still need to come in for regular adjustments just like with conventional metal braces.)
The good news is, self-ligating braces have similar costs to traditional metal braces, depending on the type of you get and your particular situation. Dental insurance often helps pay for orthodontic treatments like braces, at least in part.
Propel Accelerated Orthodontics
At Busciglio Smiles, we offer Propel accelerated orthodontics utilizing self-ligating braces. This advanced orthodontic technology means the overall duration of your treatment can be reduced significantly. Additionally, you may not need to come in for many follow-up appointments because the self-ligating braces are self-tightening and set up to be self-adjusting.
How Long Does Self-Ligating Braces Treatment Take?
Regular self-ligating braces treatments last about as long as traditional metal braces, which could be anywhere from 12 to 30 months. You would also need to come in for regular appointments to get your self-ligating braces adjusted, just like with conventional braces. However, since self-ligating braces do not need tightening like traditional metal braces, your appointments will be shorter in duration.
If you are eligible for Propel accelerated orthodontics, your treatment time can be reduced by many months – in some cases down to 5 or 6 months.
Dental Hygiene With Self-Ligating Braces
Self-ligating braces are not as prone to plaque buildup as conventional metal braces. Still, they will need extra care when brushing and flossing during your daily oral hygiene regimen. Another alternative to traditional metal braces we offer is Invisalign clear aligners, which can be removed for cleaning.
Are Self-Ligating Braces Right for You or Your Child?
Our board-certified orthodontist, Dr. Derek Busciglio, will do a thorough oral exam and assess you or your child to determine what type of braces may be most appropriate. We are confident we can help you achieve a more attractive smile!
