What Are Self-Ligating Brackets? Why We Use Pitts 21 at The Art of Braces
What Are Self-Ligating Brackets?
Here at The Art of Braces, we use self-ligating brackets. You may be wondering what on Earth is a self-ligating bracket, and why is it so important that we use them.
Self-ligating brackets are brackets that have a small "door" that slides open and holds the wire in place instead of needing ligatures (the elastic color ties) to secure the wire. You may have heard the term "Damon Brackets" before—those are also self-ligating brackets. However, in our office we use Pitts 21 Brackets, which represent the latest advancement in self-ligating bracket technology.
Why Self-Ligating Brackets Matter
The design of self-ligating brackets isn't just about convenience—it fundamentally changes how your teeth move and how you experience treatment.
1. Easier to Keep Clean
Without the color ties, there is less "stuff" in your mouth to collect and trap plaque. Traditional elastic ligatures create tiny spaces where food particles and bacteria love to hide. By eliminating these ties, self-ligating brackets make it significantly easier for you to maintain good oral hygiene throughout your treatment.
2. Less Friction = More Comfortable Movement
With self-ligating brackets, it's metal on metal—meaning the bracket slides easily along the wire. This reduced friction makes tooth movement:
- Easier – teeth can move with less force required
- Faster – less resistance means more efficient movement
- More comfortable – gentler forces on your teeth and supporting structures
3. 3D Control Earlier in Treatment
One of the most significant advantages of Pitts 21 brackets is that we gain three-dimensional control over your teeth earlier in treatment. This means we can make precise adjustments to tooth position, rotation, and angulation from the start—resulting in faster overall treatment times.
Traditional Brackets vs. Self-Ligating Brackets
| Feature | Traditional Brackets | Self-Ligating (Pitts 21) |
|---|---|---|
| Wire Attachment | Elastic ties (ligatures) | Built-in sliding door |
| Friction Level | Higher | Lower (metal-on-metal) |
| Cleaning Difficulty | More challenging | Easier |
| Plaque Trapping | More areas for buildup | Fewer areas |
| Treatment Efficiency | Standard | Often faster |
| 3D Tooth Control | Later in treatment | Earlier in treatment |
The Latest and Greatest Technology
We are proud to offer our patients the latest and greatest technologies here at The Art of Braces. Pitts 21 brackets represent the current advancement in self-ligating bracket design, and we believe our patients deserve the best.
Ready to Experience the Difference?
Whether you're considering traditional metal braces with Pitts 21 brackets, clear ceramic braces, or InSmile hidden braces, you'll benefit from self-ligating technology at The Art of Braces.
Schedule your consultation with Dr. Saoly Benson to learn more about how our advanced bracket technology can give you a beautiful smile more comfortably and efficiently!
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Start Your Smile Journey?
Schedule a free consultation with Dr. Benson today!