There are three important parts to braces: the bracket or band that is glued to the tooth, the archwire that straightens the teeth, and something that connects the archwire to the bands and brackets. Some types of braces require a metal or elastic tie to connect each tooth to the wire. In self-ligating braces, there is a little latch inside each of the braces that holds the archwire.

One advantage of self-ligating braces is that metal or elastic ties are not necessary, and do not have to be changed at every appointment. Teeth may move more quickly with self-ligating braces than with standard braces, although this is not true for all patients. And some people report that treatment with self-ligating braces is more comfortable than with standard braces, although this has not been scientifically proven.

There are many different brands of self-ligating braces. At Chelsea Orthodontics, we have found that the Innovation brand of braces gives us the best combination of ideal tooth movement and increased patient comfort. The Innovation braces can be used with or without elastic ties, as the patient wishes. The Innovation braces are also available in a combination of clear ceramic and brushed metal for an increased cosmetic appearance.

Innovation Braces

Innovation braces with colored ties

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Cosmetic Innovation Braces