Self-Ligating Braces vs Metal Braces: Cost, Pros & Cons, Pictures, FAQs

Self-Ligating Braces vs Metal Braces: Cost, Pros & Cons

Written by the Diamond Braces clinical team · Updated November 3, 2026

Self-ligating braces are braces whose brackets hold the wire with a built-in clip or door instead of elastic ties. They straighten teeth the same way metal braces do. Research reviews have not found that they finish treatment faster or hurt less; the advantage the evidence supports is slightly shorter adjustment visits.

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What are Self-Ligating Braces?

Self-ligating braces use brackets and an archwire, like traditional metal braces. The difference is how the wire is held: instead of colored elastic ties, each bracket has a small clip or sliding door that closes over the wire. They come with metal or clear brackets (American Association of Orthodontists).

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Getting them placed works the same way as metal braces: your orthodontist bonds a bracket to each tooth, fits bands or tubes on the back molars and places the archwire. Self-ligating brackets have been used in orthodontics for decades and are one of several bracket options, alongside conventional metal and ceramic brackets.

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How Much Do Self-Ligating Braces Cost?

At Diamond Braces, metal braces are $3,200, as low as $89 a month with insurance and $0 down with financing (see our pricing page). Your orthodontist will tell you at your consultation which bracket type fits your case and what your exact price is.

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A braces fee usually covers the exam and x-rays before treatment, the brackets, wires and bands, and your adjustment visits. Ask whether retainer care is included, since not every practice includes it.

Insurance may cover part of the cost of orthodontic treatment. Check your plan's orthodontic benefit before you start.

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Self-Ligating Braces Vs Traditional Metal Braces

The key difference is the clip. Traditional braces hold the wire with elastic or wire ties that are replaced at each visit. Self-ligating brackets close a clip or door over the wire, so there are no ties to change.

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What the research shows: a systematic review in the American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics found that shorter chair time and slightly less forward tipping of the lower front teeth were the only advantages of self-ligating brackets supported by the evidence (Chen et al., 2010). A systematic review in The Angle Orthodontist found no significant difference in discomfort between the two systems and concluded there was not enough high-quality evidence to favor either one (Fleming and Johal, 2010).

In practice, both systems straighten teeth well. Self-ligating braces skip the elastic ties, so appointments can be a little quicker and there are no colored bands, which some patients prefer. Traditional braces let you pick colors for your ties, which many patients enjoy.

Like any bracket, the clip or door on a self-ligating bracket can occasionally loosen or break. If that happens, call your office so it can be repaired.

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What Conditions Do Self-Ligating Braces Treat?

Self-ligating braces treat the same problems as traditional braces, including crowding, gaps, overjet and deep bite.

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Some complex cases are easier to treat with fixed braces than with clear aligners such as Invisalign treatment. Your orthodontist will recommend the appliance that fits your bite.

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Self-Ligating Braces Pros & Cons

Pros of Self-Ligating Braces

No elastic ties to change, so adjustment visits can be slightly shorter (Chen et al., 2010)
No colored bands, and clear brackets are available
Treat the same problems as traditional braces

Cons of Self-Ligating Braces

Research has not shown faster treatment or less discomfort than traditional braces (Fleming and Johal, 2010)
The clip or door can loosen or break and need a repair
No colored ties to personalize your look

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Who Should Get Self-Ligating Braces?

Self-ligating braces suit most people who need braces, because they treat the same problems as traditional braces with similar results. The choice usually comes down to your orthodontist's preference, how you want the brackets to look and your budget.

There are two types. Passive self-ligating brackets have a door that closes over the wire and lets it slide in the slot. Active self-ligating brackets have a spring clip that presses against the wire. Your orthodontist chooses the system and the wires for your case.

Whatever brackets you have, brush around each one and floss every day to keep your teeth and gums healthy during treatment.

Find a Diamond Braces office near you and ask about bracket options at your consultation.

Sources

American Association of Orthodontists, How Do Braces Work? (brackets, wires, elastic ties and self-ligating brackets)
Chen SS, Greenlee GM, Kim JE, Smith CL, Huang GJ. Systematic review of self-ligating brackets. American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, 2010.
Fleming PS, Johal A. Self-ligating brackets in orthodontics: a systematic review. The Angle Orthodontist, 2010.

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