Are you considering braces and struggling to choose between traditional and self-ligating braces? You aren't alone! We are often asked about the differences between these braces and which option is better. While there is no short answer to this, we are here to help you decide. We have outlined the differences between these and everything you need to know to see which brace option is right for you.
Traditional and self-ligating braces have one big difference in their treatment approach: Self-ligating braces do not use elastic bands to keep the wire in place. Self-ligating braces feature a built-in system that holds the archwire in place, offering less friction and making them more comfortable than conventional braces.
Aside from this key difference, there are many similarities in the treatment approach, with the tension from the metal wire of braces moving your teeth into their new position.
Traditional braces, or metal braces, are the most common, where stainless steel bands, brackets, and wires are used to move your teeth into their new location. The treatment approach usually follows the steps listed below:
Before your braces are fitted, you will meet with an orthodontist who will examine your teeth and explain all treatment options. They will walk you through the process, outline the timeframe for your teeth to move into their desired location, and answer any questions you may have.
If other dental work, like teeth extraction or cleaning, is required before the braces can be installed, this will be discussed during your consultation.
Your teeth must be cleaned thoroughly beforehand and free from plaque or tartar, as this can interfere with the bond. Your dentist will clean your teeth and dry them to ensure they have a clean surface for the brackets to adhere to.
Next, a bonding glue is applied for the brackets to attach to your tooth's surface. The glue is hardened with a special blue light that is safe for your teeth.
The application process for your metal braces has several moving parts that all come together fairly quickly. First, your brackets are attached, typically to the front of your teeth. Next, an archwire (a metal wire) is threaded through the brackets of your teeth. Your orthodontist will secure the wire with small elastic bands. It is the tension from the wire that adds pressure to your teeth, moving them into their new position, so they might spend some time ensuring the tension is correct.
Finally, bands and spacers might be added if needed. Bands are typically placed by molars for additional support, while spacers make room between teeth for orthodontic bands to be placed later.
Self-ligating braces are similar to traditional braces in how they work, but with one key difference: they feature a built-in system that holds the archwire in place. This eliminates the need for elastic bands and reduces the treatment approach time. The approach for installing self-ligating braces is pretty similar, with its steps outlined below:
You will start with an initial consultation to determine whether self-ligating braces are the right choice for you. Your dentist will discuss any other options and provide you with a breakdown of the timeline and cost. The consultation is the perfect opportunity to ask any questions you might have about the treatment.
Before self-ligating braces can be fitted, your teeth must be prepped. They will be thoroughly cleaned to remove tartar and plaque before being dried by your dentist.
For the brackets to have something to adhere to, a glue is placed on your teeth. A safe blue light cures the glue before th braces are installed.
To install your braces, brackets are installed to the front of your teeth, which will hold th wire in place. The archwire, the metal wire that runs across the teeth, is threaded through each bracket, keeping it in place.
There are no bands installed with self-ligating braces, as there is a built-in system that holds the archwire in place, instead of the bands. This speeds the installation process up and can reduce friction on your teeth.
On average, the treatment duration for traditional and self-ligating braces is the same. You can expect to have the braces on for at least a year, although some people will wear traditional braces for longer. How long your braces are worn depends on your smile goals and the work required to achieve this, along with any additional dental work that is required.
How long it takes for your braces to be applied will vary, but most patients will have them fitted within one to two hours. For more complex cases, it can take longer for your braces to be installed, especially if your dentist needs to carry out additional dental work beforehand.
Once your braces are installed, you will likely wear them for 18 to 24 months, depending on the severity of your case. Some patients' braces can be removed in as little as six months, whereas others might need to wear them for a few years. Your dentist will provide you with a timeframe during your consultation, so you know how long your braces will be on for.
Self-ligating braces have a similar installation time of one to two hours. Sometimes they can be a little faster, as there are no elastic bands or ties needed to secure the archwire. How long it will take for your self-ligating braces to be installed depends on the complexity of your case, too.
When your braces are installed, you will usually wear them for 12 to 24 months, depending on your case and how long it takes for your teeth to move into their new position. During your initial consultation, your dentist should provide you with an estimated timeframe so you know how long you will wear your braces before treatment begins.
Traditional and self-ligating braces have a few technological differences, the main one being the self-tightening design of self-ligating braces. Not only does this make caring for them easier, but it also reduces how often you need to visit the dentist for follow-up appointments.
The metal design of braces offers resistance to extreme temperatures and stain resistance, which makes them easier to wear without worrying about discolouration from food and drinks.
Since their invention, traditional braces have evolved and have several technological features that make them an excellent option for your smile goals. We have listed the technological features you should be aware of below:
Self ligating braces are designed to be more conveneit, with less visits to your dentist as they do not need to adjust them as they do with traditional braces. There are several other technological advances with self-ligating braces that make them a popular choice, including the following:
The cost for traditional metal braces and self-ligating braces is pretty similar, but you can usually pay less for self-ligating braces. The lower cost comes from the different brackets and systems offered by brands and the treatment time.
Self-ligating braces usually require shorter dental appointments, too, as the rubber bands don't need changing like they do with metal braces, reducing the time you are in the dentist and ultimately, the cost. Prices do vary depending on the complexity of your case and the orthodontist you choose, so make sure you ask your dentist for an estimated cost before proceeding.
Traditional braces typically cost between $6,000 and $9,000. The price does vary depending on the complexity of the case, how long your treatment is, and the dentist that you choose. We know that traditional metal braces can be an expensive option, which is why we offer payment plans on all of our dental procedures, allowing you to spread the cost without sacrificing your dream smile.
Self-ligating braces typically cost between $6,000 and $7,500, depending on the severity of your case and how long they are worn for. Like other braces, you can spread the cost of payment for your self-ligating braces, allowing you to access your dream smile sooner without worrying about expensive dental bills.
Customers were thrilled with the experience they had throughout their braces treatment. More customers did note pain or discomfort with their traditional braces compared to self-ligating braces, but this is expected. Traditional braces are known to be more uncomfortable initially, due to the bands adjusting the tension of the archwire.
Aside from the apin, customers were impressed with the service, praising the friendly and professional nature of everyone they encountered at Gorgeous Smiles.
Customers were impressed with their traditional metal braces experience. They enjoyed the consultation process, finding they received the information they needed to make an informed decision about their dental care. They praised the knowledgeable staff and found they were able to answer all of their questions and put any concerns to bed.
Customers were impressed with how quickly their braces could be installed, too. While some found them painful after they had been installed, they knew to expect this and found the pain subsided in a few days. Many customers were thrilled with the final result, too, and took the time to leave reviews. Check out our over 1,000 five-star reviews to learn more about other customers' experiences.
Customers were happy with their experience with self-ligating braces. They liked the reduced aftercare involved and were pleased they had been made aware of the option. Unlike traditional braces, they found less pain after they had been installed, especially as the braces aren't as tight across your teeth. They appreciated the reduced friction and found the braces comfortable to wear.
Customers praised the helpfulness of all staff and liked how time was taken to answer their questions and ensure that self-ligating braces were the right choice for them. You don't need to just take our word for it, either, as we have over 1,000 five-star reviews for you to check out to learn more about our customers' experiences.
You get plenty of support when you have either traditional braces or self-ligating braces. While you will experience more face-to-face time with your dentist with traditional braces, you will still get plenty of support and guidance with self-ligating braces. Regardless of the type of braces you choose, our team of dentists are here to help you through your orthodontic treatment.
You get plenty of support during your traditional braces treatment. As part of your treatment, you will be invited for routine appointments where we will adjust the tension of your archwire as your teeth move into their new position. During these routine appointments, we can check your oral health and answer any questions you might have. You will get plenty of face-to-face time to ensure that all of your questions are answered and you get the support that you need.
While you have fewer follow-up appointments with self-ligating braces, you will still have plenty of face-to-face time with your dentist. You will still need to have check-ups to ensure that your braces are working correctly and not causing you any issues. You will have them adjusted occasionally if necessary, but not to the extent of traditional braces. During these appointments, you have an opportunity to ask any questions or have any concerns addressed.
Alongside face-to-face appointments, our team of dental professionals are on hand to help in any way they can. You can contact us online or over the phone to receive the support and guidance you need as we create your dream smile.
The aftercare process for traditional and self-ligating braces is very similar. Once your braces are installed, your dentist will walk you through the aftercare process so you know what to expect. Aftercare is a vital part of both traditional and self-ligating braces, and one you must follow carefully to keep your smile healthy.
Traditional braces require a lot of aftercare, which you need to be aware of. Your dentist will walk you through the aftercare process for your braces, including the following:
Self-ligating braces will follow the same aftercare process, as they are also fixed braces. You will need to ensure that you keep your teeth clean and prevent any bacteria from getting stuck in your braces. Typically, you will have the following aftercare guidance:
Both traditional and self-ligating braces can help you achieve your new smile, but which is right for you? There are many similarities between these types of braces, making them tricky to decide between, but if you want to save yourself some dental appointments, self-ligating braces are an excellent choice. You can learn more about self-ligating braces at our Melbourne CBD clinic and see if they are the right option for you. Alternatively, if you are happy to visit the dentist more often and see your smile transform, traditional braces are a great choice. Learn more about traditional braces at our Melbourne CBD clinic and see what your new smile could look like.
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