Self-ligating braces hold the archwire with a small built-in door or clip instead of the elastic ties used on traditional braces. That simple change means less friction, no colored ties to trap food and, for many patients, fewer and shorter adjustment visits. At Garlock Orthodontics in Aurora, Dr. David Garlock and Dr. Logan Smith use self-ligating brackets in both metal and tooth-colored ceramic, including the Pitts21 system, to treat kids, teens and adults. Request a free consultation or call (303) 627-6212 to see if self-ligating braces are right for you.
What Are Self-Ligating Braces?
All braces have two main parts: brackets bonded to the teeth and an archwire that runs through them. On traditional braces, the wire is held in each bracket by a tiny elastic tie called a ligature. Self-ligating braces skip the ties. Each bracket has its own sliding door or spring clip that holds the wire in place.
Because nothing is squeezing the wire into the bracket, it can slide more freely as teeth move. That lower friction is the reason self-ligating braces can often move teeth with lighter forces.
Self-Ligating vs. Traditional Braces
| Self-ligating braces | Traditional braces | |
|---|---|---|
| How the wire is held | Built-in door or clip on each bracket | Elastic ties around each bracket |
| Friction | Lower, so the wire slides more freely | Higher, because ties press the wire into the bracket |
| Cleaning | No ties to collect plaque and food | Ties can trap plaque and stain over time |
| Adjustment visits | Often fewer and quicker, with no ties to replace | Ties are removed and replaced at each visit |
| Look | Available in metal or clear ceramic, often with a smaller profile | Metal or ceramic, with colored or clear ties |
| Colored bands | Not used on most brackets | A fun option many kids enjoy |
Want to compare every option side by side? See our full guide to types of braces.
Benefits of Self-Ligating Braces
Easier to keep clean
The most consistently supported advantage of self-ligating brackets is oral hygiene. Elastic ties are a magnet for plaque and food, and without them brushing and flossing are simpler. Cleaner teeth during treatment mean a lower risk of white spots, cavities and swollen gums when the braces come off.
Lighter, gentler forces
Because the wire moves with less friction, self-ligating systems can use lighter forces to move teeth. Many patients find that more comfortable, especially in the first days after a wire change.
Fewer, shorter appointments
There are no ties to cut off and replace, so adjustment visits tend to be quicker. With the Pitts21 system, no physical tightening is needed and patients typically need fewer follow-up appointments. That is less time out of school or work.
A lower-profile, more discreet look
Pitts21 brackets are thinner, have rounded corners and are placed closer to the gum line. They are less likely to rub your lips and cheeks, and they are less noticeable. Prefer something even subtler? Self-ligating brackets are also available in tooth-colored ceramic.
Can reduce the need for extra appliances
Depending on the case, the Pitts21 approach can make appliances such as palate expanders or headgear unnecessary. Dr. Garlock will tell you at your consultation whether that applies to you.
What Self-Ligating Braces Cannot Promise
Self-ligating brackets are a tool, not a shortcut. Treatment time still depends mostly on how much your teeth and bite need to change, how well you care for your braces and whether you wear elastics as directed. Research on speed is mixed, so we will not promise a faster finish just because of the bracket. What makes the biggest difference is a precise plan, careful wire choices and an orthodontist who monitors every step.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Self-ligating braces can treat the same problems as traditional braces, including:
- Crowded or overlapping teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Overbite, underbite and crossbite
- Open bite
- Teeth that are rotated or out of position
They work well for teens, adults and many younger patients. Adults who want fewer visits and a more discreet look often choose ceramic self-ligating brackets. For patients who would rather avoid brackets altogether, Invisalign is another option we offer.
What to Expect During Treatment
- Free consultation. We examine your teeth and bite, take a digital scan with our iTero scanner and talk through your goals.
- Your custom plan. Dr. Garlock or Dr. Smith designs a treatment plan and recommends metal or ceramic brackets.
- Getting your braces. Brackets are bonded to your teeth and the archwire is secured in each bracket’s door or clip. No ties are needed.
- Check-ups. Visits are spaced out and usually quick. The wire is changed as your teeth move.
- Retainers. When your teeth reach their final position, braces come off and retainers keep your smile in place.
Our braces care guide covers brushing, flossing and foods to avoid while you are in treatment.
Self-Ligating Braces and Our Technology
Self-ligating brackets are one part of a digital, precise approach to treatment at our Aurora office. We use iTero intraoral scanning instead of goopy impressions, temporary anchorage devices when a case needs extra control, and custom LightForce 3D-printed brackets for patients who want fully personalized braces. Learn more about our orthodontic technology.
How Much Do Self-Ligating Braces Cost?
The fee depends on the complexity of your case and how long treatment will take, not just the bracket type. Self-ligating braces are often in a similar range to other braces options, and ceramic brackets can cost more than metal. You get an exact fee at your free consultation.
Dr. Garlock believes finances should never stand in the way of a healthy smile. We offer in-house 0% financing with low down payment and low monthly payment options, and our team works with all insurances to help you get the most from your benefits. Visit our financial information page or try the payment calculator.
Self-Ligating Braces FAQs
Do self-ligating braces hurt less?
Many patients find them more comfortable because they use lighter forces and have a smoother, lower profile. Some pressure is normal for a few days after a wire change with any type of braces.
Are self-ligating braces faster?
They can mean fewer and shorter appointments, but overall treatment time depends mainly on your case and how well you follow instructions. We will give you a realistic estimate at your consultation.
Can I get clear self-ligating braces?
Yes. The self-ligating brackets we use come in both metal and ceramic, so you can choose a tooth-colored option.
Can I still choose colors?
Most self-ligating brackets do not use colored ties. If colors matter to you or your child, ask us about options at your visit.
Are self-ligating braces good for kids?
Yes. They are a comfortable, easy-to-clean choice for many children and teens. For younger kids with growth-related problems, we may recommend two-phase treatment first.
Visit Garlock Orthodontics in Aurora
Our office is at 6240 S. Main St., Suite 220, in Aurora, and we welcome families from across the Denver metro area. Meet Dr. Garlock and Dr. Smith, then Request a free consultation to find out whether self-ligating braces are the right fit for your smile.