What is a ligature in orthodontics?
Orthodontic ligatures are tiny rubber bands that tie the brackets and the wires together. They are a much needed part of your orthodontic system, because they help to evenly distribute the occlusal forces used to straighten your teeth. Without them, only part of the tension of the wire can actively align your teeth.
Why do orthodontists use steel ties?
A reason you might use a metal ligature tie is to try to move the tooth faster than what a conventional elastic tie would. You also use steel ligatures to hold spaces together after using a power chain. As Orthodontic Assistants, you will run into new, different, and traditional ways of tying in brackets.
What is a steel ligature?
Ligatures, also commonly known as fitments, are pieces of steel reinforcing bar which are used to create reinforcing steel cages. Ligatures are often used to assist in creating footing cages, pile cages, bored piers, column cages, walls and suspended beams.
How do you apply orthodontic ligatures?
To do this, stand in front of the mirror so you can see your teeth – then hold the rubber band securely between your thumb and pointer finger. Hook the rubber band on the hook of the braces on the top teeth and pull the rubber band to the hook on the bottom teeth.
How important are ligatures for braces?
Wire ligatures are often recommended for teeth that are turned or twisted to ensure that the archwire remains securely slotted in place. Wire ligatures provide reliable connections when the forces opposing the desired tooth movements are substantial.
Do all braces need ligatures?
Not all Braces Ligatures Are Elastic Not everyone who wears metal braces will be required to wear elastic bands. In some instances, far more force is needed to reach a patient’s cosmetic or functional goals. In these cases, ligatures made from stainless steel wire might be used instead.
Do all braces have ligatures?
Not everyone who wears metal braces will be required to wear elastic bands. In some instances, far more force is needed to reach a patient’s cosmetic or functional goals. In these cases, ligatures made from stainless steel wire might be used instead.
How can I fix my braces ligatures?
You can sterilize metal tweezers by boiling them or soaking them in rubbing alcohol. A wire ligature can be removed with the sterile tweezers. If you have a wire ligature that is sticking out and poking your lip, you can use either a cotton swab or a pencil eraser to try to bend it back into place.
Can I ask my orthodontist for power chains?
Applying a power chain to your braces is relatively simple. Your orthodontist will first remove the individual ligatures from their brackets. They’ll then replace them with the rings of the power chain.
How long does it take for teeth to move with power chains?
Power chain braces typically take about six weeks to be effective, though each case is unique. It’s essential to care for your mouth during this time properly.
What to do if ligature falls off?
If your rubber ligature comes off, try to put it back in place with sterile tweezers. If the wire ligature is sticking out into your lip but is not loose, you can try to bend it back with a cotton swab or pencil eraser. Be as gentle as possible, because if one ligature pops off or breaks, others may do so as well.
Is a loose brace wire an emergency?
This is not an emergency. If the braces have come loose in any way, you can simply remove the ligature with a tweezer and bracket should slip out. If the bracket is not bothering you, let it just stay on the wire. You may need some wax to make it comfortable if it is twisting on the wire.