If you are looking to straighten your teeth, there are many options available for you. Regular braces are the most common option, with clear braces or Invisalign trays becoming increasingly popular. Another option that is available to you is self-litigating braces. Self-litigating braces look like regular braces on the teeth but function differently. Learning the benefits associated with self-litigating braces allows you to determine if they are ideal for you. Here are three of those benefits

1. They Require Less Frequent Visits to an Orthodontist

One of the benefits associated with self-litigating braces is that they require less frequent visits to an orthodontist. Instead of rubber bands or elastic that are used on traditional braces, self-litigating braces use brackets higher up on the teeth. These brackets hold better and last longer than rubber bands and elastic. Because of this, it is not needed to visit a dentist or orthodontist every one to two months to have the rubber bands or elastics switched out or to have the braces tightened. If you want to straighten your teeth but don't have time for frequent visits, self-litigating braces may work for you. 

2. They Are Less Painful

Another benefit associated with self-litigating braces is that they are less painful. Traditional braces use a great deal of force to move your teeth and cause them to shift. While self-litigating braces also use force, the force that is exerted on the teeth is not as strong. As such, many people report that this type of braces is more comfortable and less painful compared to traditional braces. 

3. It Is Easier to Keep Your Teeth Cleaned

The final benefit associated with self-litigating braces is that it is typically easier to keep your teeth cleaned when wearing this type of braces. It can be hard to brush around rubber bands or elastic. Food can get stuck, and you have to be careful, or you can snap the band. Food can still get trapped in the brackets that are used for self-litigating braces, but cleaning in and around the brackets is easier. 

If you are looking to straighten your teeth, you will want to contact a dentist or orthodontist that offers orthodontic services. They can help you determine whether self-litigating braces or another type of braces may be the best fit for you based on the current positioning of your teeth, your desired results, your budget and any other factors that are important to you. Contact a dental professional like David W Hyten DMD today to schedule your appointment.