What are ligatures used for?

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#1 Post by **Jay Tea** » Wed Mar 26, 2008 2:22 am

Also if some have popped off does it affect your treatment

#2 Post by **anagram** » Wed Mar 26, 2008 6:42 am

Hi Jay Tea, the ligatures fasten the archwire to the brackets. When the archwire is held securely against the bracket, it applies a controlled force to the tooth via the bracket, to move the tooth in the desired way. It is possible the archwire could still be doing this if it is still in contact with the bracket (eg in a slot), but really the only safe course is to check with your ortho and see whether he/she recommends that you go in to have the ligature refitted. I am not an ortho and I can only give you my opinion as a fellow lingual wearer. I hope this helps.

#3 Post by **Jay Tea** » Sat Mar 29, 2008 3:17 am

Hmm interesting.. the wire is definately in place and they seem to be working. I will talk to my ortho in the upcoming appointment. Thanks A