Empower braces: types of ligation and design features

Correcting a bite with braces is the most popular technique in orthodontics. Its demand requires constant improvement of existing models and the creation of new designs.

New, but already popular orthodontic devices include the Empower bracket system, which allows you to straighten your teeth with minimal intervention from the dentist.

Metal braces: pros and cons

Classic metal braces have been used in dentistry for over a hundred years. It is logical to assume that such a significant period indicates many advantages. Let's take a closer look at them.

• Metal braces are reliable and durable, so they are suitable for any clinical cases. They will help correct the most complex malocclusions and crowded teeth.
• The treatment period with metal braces will be shorter than with other systems (this is an important difference between ceramic braces and metal braces). Those patients who want to correct the defect as quickly as possible should choose them.
• Metal braces on teeth are more difficult to damage from hard food, and they are not stained by tea, coffee, wine and carbonated drinks with dyes.
• Finally, this is the most affordable type of orthodontic appliance. Getting metal braces cheaply is not difficult at all.

The disadvantages include the way metal braces look on your teeth. And although manufacturers are constantly improving the appearance of the structure - making smaller clasps and offering self-ligating metal braces without rubber bands or wires, the aesthetics of such systems still leave much to be desired. There is also the possibility of an allergy to the metal of the braces. Despite the use of only safe alloys - titanium, stainless steel, nickel, locks can cause an individual reaction. Before installation, patients prone to allergies must find out what metal the braces of the chosen brand are made of.

What is the Empower system?

One of the main distinguishing characteristics of Empower braces is their expanded range of capabilities. Self-ligating systems, in which you can change active and passive ligation modes as needed, successfully correct even the most complex occlusion pathologies and anomalies in the structure of the dentition. The design of the braces involves a low profile of the plates and reduced size of the locks, which facilitates the process of adaptation to the device and reduces the degree of discomfort during treatment.

Self-ligating systems are active and passive

Types of metal braces

Based on the place of attachment to the teeth, braces are divided into vestibular and lingual. Another classification is based on the presence or absence of ligatures - auxiliary elements with which the braces are connected to the arch. Ligatures can be in the form of rubber bands or thin wires. There are also mini braces.

1. Vestibular structures
   are installed on the outer part of the teeth. These are ordinary metal braces that we are all familiar with. Such braces are more universal, correct a defect faster, do not distort diction and require less time to get used to. On the other hand, vestibular systems are visible on the teeth and can damage soft tissue.
2. Lingual metal braces
   are installed on the inside of the teeth, so the brackets are not visible to others. This is an ideal solution for those who want to hide the fact of orthodontic treatment, for example, for public people. True, you will have to prepare for a longer period of bite correction, take longer to get used to the design, and also part with a much more significant amount.
3. Metal ligature braces
   are visually more “heavy” and require frequent (every 3-4 weeks) visits to the orthodontist for correction, since the ligatures quickly stretch. However, some doctors consider such systems more suitable for difficult cases, and the cost of their installation is lower.
4. Metal non-ligature braces
   Instead of ligatures, the systems use special latches or clamps. They do not block the arc, making the friction force minimal, which has a positive effect on comfort and treatment time. Patients with a metal self-ligating brace system can come for corrections half as often, and the procedure itself will last a matter of minutes. However, ligature-free braces are more expensive.
5. Non-ligature
   For more comfortable and aesthetic treatment in orthodontics, special mini-designs have been developed. Their size is 20-30% smaller than standard braces, while the timing and effectiveness of treatment remain the same. This is a more aesthetic alternative to classic metal braces, which also does not require large expenses.

Flaws

The main disadvantage of Empower braces is the lack of the required number of specialists capable of installing the system .

Any defect made during fixation may cause deformation of the product or not give the desired result during treatment.

As a disadvantage, one can also highlight the thickness of the base, which is 1 mm greater than that of similar braces from other brands. This makes the structure visually three-dimensional.

Metal braces from different manufacturers

• Damon Q metal braces
  are perhaps the most popular on the market due to their patented design and locking system. The advantages of the Damon brand are reliability and reduced treatment time.

• Victory metal braces
  from 3M Unitek are considered one of the most attractive metal solutions. They are distinguished by the anatomical shape of the locks and a special surface that facilitates installation. In addition, 3M metal braces belong to the budget category.
• Metal braces “Pilot”
  are a domestic development that combines an affordable price and quite a good level of efficiency. There are no innovative technologies here, but the solution copes with its main task.
• Metal Marquis braces
  from Ortho Technology are also in demand among doctors and patients. They are easy to use and especially hygienic: the clasps are precisely adjusted to the teeth and have a low profile, so they are comfortable to wear, and food residues will practically not get stuck between the elements of the system. At the same time, Marquis metal braces allow you to replace arches in the shortest possible time.
• American Orthodontics Empower metal braces
  are the flagship products in the orthodontic construction market. They are effective and reliable, as well as aesthetically pleasing due to the small size of the locks. However, the cost of their installation will be higher than many analogues.
• Mini Master metal braces
  from American Orthodontics are miniature in size (25% smaller than other systems). They are “shrunk” not only in width, but also in thickness, which eliminates injury to soft tissues. Mini Master also gives you the opportunity to wear colored metal braces of your favorite shade.
Read also:  How to choose a 3D printer for a dental clinic or laboratory

Material used for manufacturing

For the production of locks, stainless steel or ceramics , made using a special technology that increases its strength.

The high quality of the clips is ensured by a nickel-titanium alloy . It is biologically neutral, has a low coefficient of friction, and creates optimal pressure on the jaw.

Each element of the system is coated with liquid glass, thanks to which it acquires a smooth surface, which significantly reduces discomfort for the patient.

Metal

The main advantages of this type:

• the brackets are highly durable;
• this type makes it possible to predict the outcome of treatment in advance;
• possibility of using different types of ligation;
• made of hypoallergenic alloy;
• treatment times are shorter than with ceramic ones;
• are cheaper than ceramic ones;
• high strength and reliability of all system elements.

The only disadvantage is low aesthetics.

Indications for use:

• complex cases in the development of the jaw and dentition;
• cases when it is necessary to move the lateral teeth back.

Ceramic

Advantages over metal structures:

• the brackets are almost invisible on the teeth;
• neither the color of the food nor the temperature can affect the color of the base;
• low risk of mucosal damage and ulcers;
• The unique properties of the groove allow for interactive ligation.

Flaws:

• insufficient strength;
• the need for frequent visits to the dentist due to the need for regular adjustment of ceramic braces;
• high price;
• treatment periods significantly exceed those of metal analogues;
• not used to correct serious pathologies.

Indications for use:

Ceramic braces are suitable for patients who prioritize their appearance. The system used:

• in case of malocclusion of I and II degrees;
• for simple dental pathologies.

Which metal braces are better?

You can choose one or another type of braces only after diagnosis, and also based on the financial capabilities of the patient. A metal ligature braces system would be the best choice if you need to save money, while metal self-ligating braces are suitable for busy people who are short on time. In addition, it is much easier to care for a structure without ligatures.

As for lingual systems, due to their cost and complexity of installation, they are not yet very popular in Russia, and finding a good doctor who specializes in such designs will not be easy. Therefore, based on a combination of factors, vestibular metal self-adjusting braces can be called the optimal solution.

Reviews

Reviews about correcting malocclusion with Empower braces are only positive.

Patients especially note the possibility of choosing and combining types of ligation. You can also leave a review about this bracket system in the comments to this article.

If you find an error, please select a piece of text and press Ctrl+Enter.

Tags: braces vestibular braces metal braces sapphire braces empower

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Installation of metal braces

In order to get metal braces, you need to go through three main stages.

1. Diagnostic.
   This includes: consultation with an orthodontist, medical history, radiography, orthopantomography, photographs of the patient from different angles, drawing up a treatment plan and choosing the appropriate brace system.
2. Sanitation of the oral cavity.
   Treatment of caries and other diseases, elimination of foci of inflammation, if necessary, extraction of teeth or prosthetics, removal of hard deposits and plaque, strengthening of enamel.
3. Direct installation of a metal bracket system.
   The last stage lasts no more than two hours. The doctor prepares the surface of the teeth, glues a separate lock-bracket to each tooth one by one, and fixes the adhesive solution with an ultraviolet lamp. If the locks are installed using the indirect method, that is, all at once, the procedure time is halved. He then connects the clasps to the archwire using ligatures or built-in fasteners. At the end, additional elements are installed - rings, cheek locks, hooks for elastic rods, springs, and so on.

In rare cases, metal braces are placed on one jaw. This is possible with slight curvature of the teeth, which does not affect the bite in any way.

Models Clarity and Clarity SL from 3M Unitek (USA)

As for the Clarity model, this is a traditional ligature system, where the arch is fixed using rubber bands. But the Clarity SL model is self-ligating ceramic braces (but if indicated and as necessary, you can selectively ligate the arch with elastic bands).

The photo shows the Clarity system

In both samples, the plates themselves have an anatomical contour, a microcrystalline surface and rounded edges. In addition, they are reinforced with an open metal groove (lock) made of stainless steel. All this allows the system to be very durable, ensures the reliability of its fixation on the teeth, makes the process of adaptation and subsequent use comfortable, and makes the treatment as effective as possible for the patient. These design features also reduce the risk of mucosal injury to zero and simplify daily hygiene care.

The manufacturer positions its devices as one of the fastest to install, eliminating time-consuming steps in the orthodontist’s office. The fact is that each plate is already treated with an adhesive composition. In addition, when in contact with the enamel, the adhesive acquires a pink color, which allows the doctor to accurately determine its location and carefully remove excess if necessary.

The photo shows teeth before and after treatment

When choosing these aesthetic models, the cost of correcting the bite on one jaw will cost you approximately 110-120 thousand rubles.

How is treatment with metal braces performed?

Fixed orthodontic appliances apply constant pressure to the teeth, causing them to gradually move into the desired position. The arch plays a significant role in this process: at first it repeats the irregular shape of the teeth, but tends to return to its original position, thanks to which it smoothly corrects the bite. After each correction, the doctor changes the archwire to a thicker one to increase the pressure.

Let's look at why metal braces straighten teeth faster. The main quality of a metal system is its strength, and it does not really matter what metal is used in the braces. Due to the force of pressure, the teeth move faster and the treatment period is reduced. If the patient is faced with a choice between sapphire or metal braces, he must understand: although the sapphire design looks attractive, it will take a little longer to wear due to the fragility of the material.

So how long do you wear metal braces? Orthodontists call the average treatment period 1.5 - 2 years, but everything, of course, depends on the clinical case. The minimum period is 1 year for mild crowding of teeth, the maximum is about 3 years.

Comments

Braces are all great. But I have no desire to wear them, even ceramics... What other options are possible?

Nikita (11/25/2020 at 03:56 pm) Reply to comment

It all depends on your clinical case. So, if you have minor defects that do not affect the functionality of the maxillofacial apparatus, then you can get by with artistic restoration and microprosthetics. For more serious malocclusion pathologies, you can consider trainers, plates, and transparent removable aligners. Read more about methods for correcting crooked teeth without braces in the feature article on the website.

Editorial staff of the portal UltraSmile.ru (11/28/2020 at 09:12) Reply to comment

Are ceramic braces suitable for a child?

Svetlana (01.12.2020 at 15:02) Reply to comment

If a child has already fully formed a permanent bite, which usually happens between the ages of 14 and 16, then ceramic braces can be considered as an option for teeth correction. For example, you can choose ligature systems because they are more affordable, plus you can always choose different colored rubber bands (ligatures) for them, which is usually very popular with teenagers who like to stand out from the crowd. Also, children are often given simply metal or plastic systems.

Editorial staff of the portal UltraSmile.ru (04.12.2020 at 09:14) Reply to comment

I like Japanese braces in terms of quality and appearance better than others, but they are selected individually. Tell me, can braces be placed successfully at any age or are there restrictions?

Anna (12/18/2020 at 09:40) Reply to comment

How many times can you get braces in your lifetime? And can they be placed on ceramic crowns? I wore braces for 2 years, after removing them everything came back. I want to install it again, but I’m afraid that the crowns will be damaged when removed.

Anna (12/18/2020 at 10:23 am) Reply to comment

Braces look attractive, straighten teeth well, and change your smile. There is a choice and that's the main thing. Tell me, do specialists usually offer systems from different countries or just one or two?

Dan (12/18/2020 at 10:41 am) Reply to comment

You need to carefully weigh the pros and cons before installing braces. How much do braces feel and are they comfortable to live with? After all, they require careful care and periodic visits to the doctor.

Tonya (12/18/2020 at 10:45 am) Reply to comment

As I understand it, the most comfortable and well-thought-out model for treatment is installed and selected exclusively by a specialist? You probably won’t be able to choose a model that you like externally.

Vera (12/18/2020 at 10:47 am) Reply to comment

My front tooth was half broken at one time. It has been built up and is held on by a pin. Is it possible to install braces on such a tooth?

Anastasia (12/18/2020 at 10:47 am) Reply to comment

How should you properly care for braces? Is there a uniform approach to this or does it all depend on what they are made of? Because one doctor recommends one thing, and another another. And there is no clarity.

Ekaterina (02/05/2021 at 09:58) Reply to comment

As a child, I never understood the people who agreed to them, but now I understand that although it is expensive and not easy, the result is worth it, straight, beautiful teeth. And if a person is already over 30, can this also be installed?

Lera (02/05/2021 at 10:06 am) Reply to comment

Each model has its own characteristics and capabilities. Tell me, can a brace help if I have problems with the temporomandibular joint due to which I have an incorrect bite?

Alla (02/05/2021 at 15:57) Reply to comment

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Hygiene rules and nutritional features

An integral part of orthodontic treatment with braces is constant monitoring of the condition of the oral cavity. After installing the system, if you experience discomfort or pain from rubbing, you should immediately contact your orthodontist. He will correct the design, apply special food-grade wax to the areas of braces that injure the gums, and prescribe medications for the treatment of inflammatory processes in the oral mucosa.

It is very important to develop good eating habits:

• do not eat solid food;
• healthy vegetables and fruits - only grated or cut into pieces, but in no case whole;
• exclude everything crispy and sticky (crackers, toffee, chewing gum, caramel, etc.);
• avoid sweets and soda to protect tooth enamel;
• Avoid very hot and cold drinks—temperature changes can cause braces to come off your teeth;

Anyone who wears braces is recommended to brush their teeth every time after eating, most thoroughly before going to bed. It is necessary to use tools such as:

• orthodontic brushes (with a small compact head and a V-shaped recess in the middle) for high-quality and gentle cleansing;
• dental floss (preferably orthodontic);
• an irrigator that will help remove food debris, plaque, and also prevent bleeding by massaging the gums;
• brush-brush for cleaning locks and removing stuck food in braces;
• restorative mousses with minerals.

It is recommended to visit a hygienist for professional teeth cleaning approximately once 3 months.

Advantages

The advantages of this system include the following:

• A special coating reduces the likelihood of bacterial plaque forming on their surface.
• It does not take much time to activate the system, since the locking mechanism allows you to quickly fix the arc. In addition, to facilitate positioning, the manufacturer has marked each bracket.
• The simplicity of the locking mechanism allows you to open it yourself at home, if the need arises.
• Minimal impact on oral tissue allows Empower to be used for periodontal diseases.
• The low height of the lock and its smoothness ensure quick adaptation and minimize the risk of injury to the oral mucosa.
• Braces are affordable.

What is the difference between ceramic braces and metal braces?

Many patients are interested in what is better - ceramic or metal braces. You need to understand that both types of systems cope well with their task, the only question is in the details.

When choosing ceramic or metal braces, you should decide on your priorities: aesthetics or treatment time? Ceramic systems are practically invisible on the teeth, and this makes the correction psychologically more comfortable. On the other hand, if it takes a year and a half to correct a moderate defect with metal braces, then with ceramic braces it will take about two years.

Lifestyle will help you understand which braces are better - ceramic or metal. Metal is much less capricious: it does not stain under the influence of red wine, tea and coffee, and is also not prone to chips and cracks.

Another popular question is whether it is possible to smoke with metal braces. If we do not take into account the harm from smoking as such, then it is really better for smokers to install a metal system, since ceramics can change color under the influence of resins.

Combined braces: metal and ceramic

To save on installing an aesthetic system, you can choose combined metal and ceramic braces. When a person smiles, the lower teeth are less visible, so to save money it is worth putting metal braces on the lower jaw and ceramic braces on the upper jaw. This is a worthy compromise between the cost of treatment and psychological comfort during it. Similarly, you can combine sapphire with metal.

Is it possible to get metal braces inexpensively?

Undoubtedly. Installing regular staples is the cheapest. However, the price of metal braces can vary. Designs with ligatures will cost the least - from 25,000 rubles, a metal non-ligature bracket system starts at 35,000 rubles. Of course, we are talking about vestibular structures, since the price list for lingual systems starts from 100,000 rubles. Ceramic braces with a metal groove will be an order of magnitude more expensive than a conventional system. You also need to keep in mind that metal braces for the upper jaw are more expensive than for the lower jaw. Such designs are the most affordable, and this is also the difference between metal and ceramic braces. The table below will help you navigate the cost of metal structures, as well as a call to a clinic where you can install braces in Moscow.