Orthotown October 2012 - (Page 52)

self-ligating brackets // feature The idea of self-ligating brackets is not a new orthodontic treatment concept. In fact, the first self-ligating brackets are said to have been developed in 1935, and Ormco made the bracket commercially available in 1972. Despite decades of market accessibility, debate continues around the bracket today regarding its functionality and best-use cases. In my professional experience, there is no question as to the superiority of self-ligating brackets. Many studies have indicated that self-ligating brackets might provide greater patient comfort, shorter treatment times, reduced chairtime and more precise control of tooth translation. As we know, minimizing the duration of treatment while reducing chairtime will keep patients happy and help reduce practice overhead. The result is a practice that operates far more efficiently and is more attractive to the reported 23 million U.S. adults who are interested in improving their smiles. I’ve been a Damon System user and educator for more than eight years, and in my experience these are some of the true advantages of using self-ligating brackets on any number of different malocclusions. Advanced Technology Self-ligating brackets are the most advanced technology available in both wires and brackets. Don’t let the fact that these brackets have been on the scene since 1935 fool you; today, self-ligating brackets remain the most technologically advanced style bracket on the market. Coupled with light archwires for reduced friction tooth movement, self-ligating brackets take advantage of pressure systems and forces to work more efficiently than traditional brackets. Increased Comfort With less friction and the removal of elastic ties, treatment with self-ligating brackets is far more comfortable than conventional braces. This bracket style moves orthodontics away from the traditional image of clunky, painful metal brackets by using either an elegant door or clip mechanism, thus capitalizing on sliding mechanics. Such is the case with the Damon System, doing away with unnecessary and uncomfortable wire tightening. Enhanced Oral Hygiene As indicated, self-ligating brackets eliminate the need for latex ties on each bracket. The advantages are three-fold: increased patient comfort, suitable treatment for patients with latex allergies and better oral hygiene. Normal latex ties not only trap food easily and become quickly laced with plaque, but present an often challenging issue of patient hygiene compliance. 52 OCTOBER 2012 // orthotown.com http://www.orthotown.com

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Orthotown October 2012

Front Cover
Orthotown.com Highlights
Wired for Success
Townie Clinical: Phase I Decisions
Best Direct Bonding Protocol
AAO Dues
Corporate Profile: Ortho Classic
New Products
Office Visit: One in a Million
Insurance: We Love to Hate It… But Should We? (Part 2)
You Should Know: G&H Orthodontics
Industry News
Have You Really Thought About Your Schedule Lately?
“Go Mobile…”
Speeding Up Orthodontic Treatment with OrthoAccel’s AcceleDent System
Advantages of Self-Ligating Brackets
Adult Clinical Cases with Pathological Problems Treated with Lingual Orthodontics
Ad Index

Orthotown October 2012