By Dr. Anagha Kanade Deshpande, MDS Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopaedics, Orion Dental Specialities, Kothrud, Pune.
You may have heard of self-ligating braces, perhaps by a brand name a friend mentioned, and wondered what they are and whether they are worth it. They are one of several ways to straighten teeth, and for the right person they offer some real practical advantages. In this guide I explain how self-ligating braces work, how they differ from traditional braces, their benefits and trade-offs, and what they cost in Pune in 2026.
I am Dr. Anagha Kanade Deshpande, MDS in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopaedics, practising at Orion Dental Specialities in Kothrud.
What Are Self-Ligating Braces?
Self-ligating braces use a small built-in clip or door on each bracket to hold the wire, instead of the tiny elastic ties used with traditional braces. They work on the same principle of gently guiding teeth into place, and come in both metal and tooth coloured ceramic versions.
How Are They Different from Traditional Braces?
The key difference is simple. Traditional braces hold the wire with small elastic ties that are changed at each visit, usually about once a month. Self-ligating braces hold the wire with the built-in clip instead. This means there are no coloured elastics, and the brackets often have a smoother surface that can be a little easier to keep clean.
Types of Self-Ligating Braces
There are two main types.
- Metal self-ligating braces. Durable and the most affordable self-ligating option.
- Ceramic self-ligating braces. Tooth coloured brackets for a more discreet look.
Benefits of Self-Ligating Braces
The benefits below are compared with traditional metal and ceramic braces that use elastic ties.
- No elastic ties to change, which can mean simpler adjustment visits.
- A smoother bracket that can be a little easier to keep clean.
- Available in tooth coloured ceramic for a discreet look.
- Many patients find them comfortable to wear, and some find them more tolerable than braces with elastic ties.
Are There Any Trade-offs?
Self-ligating braces usually cost a little more than standard braces, there are no coloured bands for children who enjoy them, and whether they are the right choice depends on the individual case. The bracket type is just one part of a wider treatment plan.
How Much Do Self-Ligating Braces Cost in Pune?
Self-ligating braces usually cost a little more than standard braces, and the exact figure depends on your case.
Note: These are representative 2026 Pune ranges for guidance only. They are not Orion’s fixed fees. For a figure specific to you, please book a consultation.
| Option | Representative 2026 Pune Range | Notes |
| Metal self-ligating braces | 60,000 to 85,000 | Clip mechanism, no elastic ties |
| Ceramic self-ligating braces | 75,000 to 90,000 | Tooth coloured, more discreet |
Do They Work Faster or Hurt Less?
Treatment time depends mainly on your case rather than the type of bracket alone, so it is best not to promise a set time. Fitting is virtually pain free, and while some patients find self-ligating braces comfortable, comfort varies from person to person. In our experience they are generally tolerated well, often better than traditional braces with elastic ties.
Caring for Self-Ligating Braces
Care is much like any braces: brush well around the brackets and wire, clean between the teeth every day, and avoid very hard or sticky foods. With no elastic ties, there is one less place for food to catch, which makes them a little easier to keep clean than traditional braces.
Payment Options
At Orion Dental Specialities we offer direct clinic instalment plans, and we are happy to talk you through the options during your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are self-ligating braces?
They are braces that use a small built-in clip or door on each bracket to hold the wire in place, instead of the elastic ties used with traditional braces. They come in metal and tooth coloured ceramic versions and work on the same principle of gently moving teeth.
Q: Are self-ligating braces better than regular braces?
They have some practical advantages, such as no elastic ties to change and being a little easier to keep clean, which can mean simpler visits. Whether they are the right choice depends on your case. Your orthodontist will advise what suits your teeth.
Q: Do self-ligating braces work faster?
Treatment time depends mainly on your case rather than the type of bracket. Some patients find self-ligating braces convenient and comfortable, but we avoid promising a set time. Your orthodontist will give you a realistic estimate for your teeth.
Q: How much do self-ligating braces cost in Pune?
The cost usually depends on several factors, such as the complexity of the case, the treatment duration, and the type of braces chosen. They usually cost a little more than traditional braces because of their practical advantages. Visit us at Orion Dental Specialities in Kothrud to learn more about exact prices and payment options.
Q: Do self-ligating braces hurt less?
Any braces can cause mild soreness for a day or two after fitting or an adjustment, and this settles with simple measures. Some people find self-ligating braces comfortable, but comfort varies from person to person. Fitting them is virtually pain free.
Conclusion
Self-ligating braces come down to a few simple points: they use a clip instead of elastic ties, they offer practical benefits such as simpler visits and easier cleaning, and the right choice always depends on your case. If you would like to know whether they suit your teeth, book a consultation with us at Orion Dental Specialities in Kothrud and we will guide you.
Medical disclaimer: All price ranges on this page are representative 2026 Pune figures based on market observation and are for guidance only. They are not Orion Dental Specialities’ fixed fees. The right appliance depends on an individual clinical assessment. Please book a consultation for advice specific to you.
About the author: Dr. Anagha Kanade Deshpande holds an MDS in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopaedics and is an Invisalign certified provider, practising at Orion Dental Specialities in Kothrud, Pune.
