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Traditional braces and self-ligating braces are two popular orthodontic treatment methods today. However, many people still don’t fully understand the differences between them, making it difficult to choose the most suitable option. Elite Dental will help you compare these two methods and make an informed decision, ensuring a comprehensive result in both bite alignment and aesthetic smile after orthodontic treatment.
1. What are Traditional Braces and Self-Ligating Braces?
Traditional braces (also known as ligature braces) are a method that uses archwires fixed within brackets by elastics, applying force to move teeth into the correct positions along the dental arch. There are two types of traditional braces: metal braces and ceramic braces. Among them, ceramic braces offer better aesthetics due to the material’s color being similar to natural tooth color.
Self-ligating braces (also called self-locking braces) are an improved version, using an automatic latch system built into the brackets to secure the archwires, eliminating the need for elastics like traditional braces. There are two common types of self-ligating braces:
- Metal self-ligating braces: Archwires and automatic latches are made from metal, which is more affordable.
- Ceramic self-ligating braces: The self-locking mechanism is made of clear ceramic, similar in color to natural teeth, offering enhanced aesthetics but at a higher cost.
2. Comparing Traditional Braces and Self-Ligating Braces
Both traditional and self-ligating braces share some similarities, such as:
- Both metal brackets and archwires are durable and sturdy, allowing the braces to withstand force and ensuring a continuous orthodontic process that yields high results.
- The cost of metal braces is lower compared to other orthodontic methods.
- Both options have relatively low aesthetic appeal, as the braces are visible when speaking.
However, when it comes to structure, treatment time, and orthodontic effectiveness, each method has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Here’s a comparison chart to help you better understand the differences:
Criteria | Traditional Braces | Self-Ligating Braces |
Structure | Archwires are fixed within the brackets using elastics. | Uses an automatic latch built into the bracket to allow archwires to slide freely. |
Aesthetics | Less aesthetic due to visible elastics and brackets. | More aesthetic due to the absence of elastics and compact, refined design of the latches. |
Treatment Time/Check-ups | Elastics may loosen over time, causing inconsistent pressure, leading to longer treatment times and more frequent check-ups. | Automatic latches keep archwires stable throughout the treatment, maintaining consistent force and reducing the need for frequent check-ups. Treatment duration is typically 4-6 months shorter than traditional braces. |
Orthodontic Effectiveness | Moves teeth into the correct position, but higher friction between the archwire and brackets can cause pain and discomfort, and may irritate soft tissues in the mouth. | High effectiveness with better control over tooth movement. The automatic latches reduce friction between the brackets and gums, minimizing pain and discomfort. |
Cost | The cost of metal braces typically ranges from 50,000,000 to 65,000,000 VND | Self-ligating braces are generally more expensive than traditional braces. |
Hygiene | Food can easily get stuck in the elastics and brackets, making cleaning difficult. | The solid design (with the latch built into the bracket) reduces plaque buildup, making cleaning simpler and easier. |
3. Self-Ligating Braces vs. Traditional Braces: Which Method Should You Choose?
From the comparisons above, it is clear that both traditional braces and self-ligating braces have their own advantages and disadvantages. Depending on your dental condition, budget, time availability, and aesthetic needs, you can choose the most suitable method.
- If you’re looking for an affordable option for orthodontic treatment, traditional braces with elastics may be a good choice.
- If you want to avoid the issue of braces coming loose or breaking, and prefer easier dental hygiene, self-ligating braces would be a better option.
- For individuals who frequently interact with others and prioritize aesthetics during treatment, ceramic self-ligating braces should be preferred.
However, braces, whether traditional or self-ligating, may not be the best orthodontic solution as their effectiveness and aesthetics are relatively limited. Nowadays, many people prefer the Invisalign treatment – the most advanced digital orthodontic technology, which uses clear, flexible plastic aligners that fit snugly over the dental arch.
- Invisalign aligners are uniquely designed, with carefully cut edges that do not rub against the gums, providing a gentler force to move teeth compared to the tightening force from braces, thus reducing discomfort.
- Furthermore, the aligners are removable, offering greater comfort during meals and for oral hygiene, without the feeling of restriction or discomfort.
4. Where Should You Get Braces?
To achieve comprehensive orthodontic results, both in terms of bite alignment and aesthetics, it is crucial to not only choose the right method but also find a reputable orthodontic center with skilled and experienced doctors to ensure that your teeth are moved according to the right treatment plan.
Elite Dental, founded in 2012, has become a trusted location for orthodontic treatments, helping many people achieve healthier and more beautiful smiles. When you choose Elite Dental for your orthodontic care, you can be confident in the quality and comprehensive results that match the investment you make in your smile.
- Our team of orthodontists has over 10 years of experience and has successfully treated thousands of cases with both traditional metal braces and self-ligating braces.
- The clinic has a modern, clean, and spacious facility dedicated to orthodontics, providing a comfortable and relaxing environment for clients as they embark on their orthodontic journey.
- We follow a medically standardized orthodontic process, with advanced equipment such as 3D Trios scanners, Clincheck software, and Sirona X-ray machines (from Germany), imported from advanced countries like Germany, Japan, and the United States.
- Elite Dental also has a comprehensive database of diverse orthodontic cases, with every treatment carefully performed to ensure that the final result is a well-aligned bite, functional chewing, and an aesthetically pleasing smile and balanced face.
Above are the details about traditional and self-ligating braces that Elite Dental wants to share with you. If you’re unsure about which method to choose, feel free to contact Elite Dental. With our expertise, experience, and dedication, we will provide the right plan to help you soon achieve a strong, beautiful, and long-lasting smile.