Self-Ligating Bracket
A bracket design incorporating a built-in mechanism to retain the archwire without the need for separate ligature ties.
Full Definition
Self-ligating brackets use a sliding or hinged clip (passive or active) to engage the archwire, replacing the elastomeric or wire ligatures used in conventional brackets. In editorial contexts, writers may refer to passive self-ligation (e.g., Damon system) or active self-ligation (e.g., In-Ovation), and these distinctions should be preserved. The term is hyphenated as 'self-ligating'. Claimed advantages such as reduced friction and shorter treatment times are subject to clinical debate, and editors should not introduce unsubstantiated superlatives when editing marketing or patient-facing literature. Correct capitalisation of proprietary brand names (e.g., Damon, Speed) is essential.
Usage
Usage note: Always hyphenate 'self-ligating'; distinguish between passive and active types when the source text specifies.
In Context
- "The clinician opted for passive self-ligating brackets to reduce chairside ligation time." — Clinical case report
- "Patient information leaflets must not overstate the speed advantages of self-ligating bracket systems without evidence." — Patient information leaflet editorial review