Dental Instruments – Ligature
Dental ligatures are small elastics or wires that are used to hold the archwire in place on brackets attached to teeth in orthodontic treatment. The archwire is the main component of braces, which applies pressure to the teeth to correct their alignment.
Ligatures can be made of different materials, including elastic bands, wire ties, or metal ligatures. They come in various colors, allowing patients to customize their braces’ appearance.
The ligatures are placed over the brackets, holding the archwire in place and providing pressure to move the teeth into the desired position. They are typically changed at each adjustment appointment to ensure that the teeth continue to move correctly.
It’s important to keep the ligatures clean to prevent bacteria buildup, which can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Patients should brush their teeth regularly and avoid eating sticky or hard foods that can damage the ligatures or dislodge them from the brackets.