Using connected dental braces is an ideal solution for many dental issues due to their numerous advantages. However, some people may not prefer them because, like any fixed braces, they temporarily affect the appearance of the smile and for other reasons. A specialist dentist determines whether connected braces are the most suitable option for you. Here’s everything you need to know about connected dental braces, whether they’re right for your dental condition, and the differences between connected and traditional braces in terms of structure, benefits, and more.
Get the Best Dental Braces for Your Condition
At Al-Dur Al-Manthour Clinics, our doctors professionally determine the most suitable type of braces for your dental condition, as we select the elite dentists in the Kingdom. Our clinic also offers a variety of dental braces services. It’s not just about installing braces to fix oral and dental issues; it’s also about choosing the right type of braces and using them in the best way, as our clinic’s dentist will explain to you.
Expert Care at Al-Dur Al-Manthour Clinics
Our dentists are experienced in handling complex cases that require dental implants and repairs. We also provide braces services for children at our pediatric and special needs clinics.
What Are Connected Dental Braces?
Connected dental braces, also known as self-ligating braces, are a type of fixed dental braces. Their structure is characterized by brackets that connect directly to the teeth, which impacts their function and the desired results.
How Connected Braces Differ from Traditional Braces
Traditional dental braces are the metal braces that resemble train tracks, consisting primarily of metal brackets fixed to the teeth and connected by wires. For traditional braces to be effective, the wire must remain tightly secured within the brackets using elastic or metal ties (the part that gives the braces a distinctive color). In contrast, with connected braces, the wire isn’t secured within the brackets using ties. Instead, the bracket itself has a built-in system that holds the wire in place, as shown in the image below.
Types of Self-Ligating Brackets
There are two types of self-ligating brackets, depending on how they apply pressure to the wire while securing it:
- Active Spring Bracket: This type applies pressure to the wire, exerting an active force on it.
- Simple Sliding Mechanism Bracket: This operates with a simple mechanical mechanism that secures the wire without applying pressure like the first type.
Since connected braces don’t use elastic or metal ties, the brackets or built-in clips hold the wires in place. This ensures the braces remain active at all times and move the teeth at a faster pace. Traditional braces, on the other hand, require tightening and replacing the ties every 4 to 6 weeks. This is particularly beneficial when using braces for children, as it reduces the need to convince them to visit the dentist, which they may fear.
Regular Adjustments with Connected Braces
You’ll need to visit the dentist periodically after getting connected braces for routine adjustments. During these visits, the orthodontist evaluates the position of your teeth and may adjust or replace the wire. These adjustments help modify the pressure and direction on your teeth, gradually moving them to their desired new positions.
Benefits of Connected Dental Braces
Shorter and Fewer Dental Visits
Opening and closing self-ligating brackets during adjustments takes less time. In contrast, traditional braces require replacing each tie individually during adjustments, which takes longer.
Easier to Clean Compared to Traditional Braces
The absence of elastic or metal ties makes it easier to clean your teeth thoroughly, reducing the risk of tooth decay that often occurs with traditional braces.
Less Pain After Installation
Some studies suggest that the pain after installing connected dental braces is less than with traditional braces. However, some discomfort may still occur, especially after the initial installation and during wire adjustment visits.
Drawbacks of Using Connected Dental Braces
Potential Bracket Failure
One of the main issues with connected braces is the risk of bracket failure, which can prevent them from functioning properly. This may require more sessions and a longer treatment time, leading to higher costs. Connected braces are also generally more expensive, as we’ll explain.
Common Challenges with Fixed Braces
Additionally, when using connected braces, you may face the same common issues as with traditional braces, such as:
- Tooth decay if you don’t maintain proper oral hygiene.
- Teeth reverting to their pre-braces position if you don’t wear a retainer regularly.
Conditions Suited for Connected Braces
This type of braces doesn’t differ significantly from traditional braces. The treating dentist decides if they’re the best option for your case based on several factors, including your specific dental condition, your treatment goals, and your budget.
Cost of Connected Braces
The cost of connected braces is expected to be higher than traditional braces because they incorporate more advanced technology in the brackets. Other factors also contribute to the cost, such as the severity of the dental issue and the overall treatment duration. Costs may also vary between orthodontists. For the best price and highest quality for connected dental braces, contact Al-Dur Al-Manthour Clinics.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Do Connected Braces Do? When Should I Get Connected Braces?
Connected braces secure the wire that applies pressure and may exert additional pressure using brackets without the need for elastic ties. You should get them if they’re suitable for your dental condition and your orthodontist determines they’ll provide faster and better results than traditional braces.
How Long Does Connected Braces Treatment Take?
Some claim that connected dental braces yield faster results than traditional braces. However, scientific research shows no statistically significant difference in outcomes due to varying cases; they lead to faster results in some cases and similar results to traditional braces in others.
What’s the Benefit of Connected Elastics in Dental Braces?
Many confuse connected dental braces (self-ligating braces) with connected elastics, which are a supplementary part of traditional braces. Connected elastics have several benefits, adjusting the bite depending on how they’re placed:
- Type 1: Placed horizontally to connect brackets on one jaw, used to close gaps between teeth.
- Type 2: Connects upper jaw teeth to lower jaw molars, used to correct an overbite.
- Type 3: Connects lower jaw teeth to upper jaw molars, used to correct an underbite.
- Vertical Type: Connects upper jaw teeth to the lower jaw teeth directly below, used to correct an open bite.
- Cross Type: Connects upper and lower jaw teeth, often crossing over the front teeth, used to correct a crossbite.
What’s the Difference Between Connected and Traditional Braces?
Although both connected and traditional dental braces are types of fixed braces, connected braces differ in how the wire is secured to the brackets—they don’t use ties. This gives them advantages like easier cleaning but makes them more expensive compared to metal braces. Your dentist can help you choose the right type of braces for your case and explain if connected braces are the best option for you.