Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Ligature (orthodontic)
Introduction
Editor in Chief: Berna Zorkun DMD [1]
Overview
Ligature is a term used in orthodontics for the small elastic that is used to affix the archwire to the bracket. Ligatures are usually changed at each adjustment, and come in many varied colors including transparent. A series of ligatures connected to each other and used to pull teeth together with more strength is called a powerchain.
Self Ligation is an orthodontic term used to describe a bracket with a sliding or rotating mechanism to ligate an archwire. This type of bracket replaces elastic ligatures that are traditionally used. Self ligation typically cuts orthodontic appointment time drastically. Currently, self ligating brackets make up about 10 percent of total bracket sales worldwide.