Logo for Image Orthodontics featuring the word "IMAGE" in blue with a smiley face in the letter "G," emphasizing their expertise in clear aligners, above "ORTHODONTICS" in gray text.
877-600-5115

Call 24/7 to Schedule

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877-600-5115

Call 24/7 to Schedule

Find My Nearest Location
Logo for Image Orthodontics featuring the word "IMAGE" in blue with a smiley face in the letter "G," emphasizing their expertise in clear aligners, above "ORTHODONTICS" in gray text.

Self-ligating Braces for Children, Teens & Adults

Do you want to improve your smile with self-ligating braces? If you are a new patient, book an appointment and see if you are eligible for this treatment.

If you are an existing patient, you can call us at 877-600-5115.

 

You may also get your braces on the same day as your consultation.

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Image Orthodontics

What Are Self-Ligating Braces?

Self-ligating braces are an orthodontic treatment that is a modern alternative to traditional metal braces. Conventional braces use elastic ties or metal wires to hold the arch wire in place. Instead, self-ligating braces use a specialized clip or sliding mechanism built directly into the bracket. This system allows the arch wire to move more freely, reducing friction and improving efficiency.

Self-ligating vs. traditional braces:

  • Traditional braces: Use elastic bands that can trap food and plaque, requiring more frequent maintenance.
  • Self-ligating braces: Rely on built-in clips, making them cleaner, faster to adjust, and often more comfortable.

Who Are Self-Ligating Braces For?

Self-ligating braces may be suitable for: 

  • Children and Teens: Perfect for growing smiles needing gentle yet effective alignment. 
  • Adults: Ideal for busy adults seeking a discreet and efficient way to improve their smile with minimal lifestyle disruption. 

These braces may be a great option for anyone looking to correct crooked teeth, gaps, bite issues, or overcrowding. 
Are you a new patient?
Schedule your consultation
Are you an existing patient?
Call Image Orthodontics

How Do Self-Ligating Braces Work?

Self-ligating braces use low-friction mechanics that allow the arch wire to slide within the bracket. This movement helps teeth shift into position with fewer adjustments and lighter forces compared to traditional braces. 

Timings:

  • Initial fitting typically takes around one hour. 
  • Adjustment appointments are shorter and less frequent. 
  • Braces begin shifting your teeth immediately after placement.

Treatment Duration

Some patients complete treatment with self-ligating braces in 18 to 24 months. Individual times may vary depending on the complexity of the case.  

Some patients with mild issues may finish treatment in as little as 12 months. Book an appointment with us so we can evaluate your specific case. 
Are you a new patient?
Schedule your consultation
Are you an existing patient?
Call Image Orthodontics

Benefits Of Self-Ligating Braces

  • Faster treatment time: Fewer adjustments usually mean shorter overall treatment durations in many cases. 
  • Fewer office visits: Clips usually reduce the need for frequent tightening. 
  • Improved comfort: In many cases, it means less pressure on teeth and gums. 
  • Easier oral hygiene: No elastic bands mean less trapping of food and plaque. 
  • Long-term results: The constant, gentle pressure usually promotes stable outcomes. 
  • Subtler Appearance: Many self-ligating brackets are smaller than traditional ones, making them less noticeable. Some even come in clear or tooth-colored options for those wanting a more discreet look. 

Disadvantages Of Self-Ligating Braces

  • Not always the fastest option: While they can speed up certain cases, not all patients see faster results.
  • Bracket size: Some patients find them slightly bulkier than traditional brackets.
  • Cost: They can be slightly more expensive, depending on your orthodontic needs and insurance coverage.
  • Complexity: Not always suitable for the most complicated alignment issues.

Who Is Eligible?

Most individuals who are candidates for traditional braces may also benefit from self-ligating braces. This includes children, teens, and adults.


During your consultation, we’ll evaluate your dental health, alignment goals, and treatment needs. We will then determine if this option is the best for you. Book an appointment now with us, and we will analyze your specific needs.

What to Expect

How to get self-ligating braces:

01. Begin with a Personalized Consultation

Interested in self-ligating braces? Start your journey with a consultation from one of our board-certified orthodontists. We’ll discuss your goals, answer your questions, and determine the best treatment path for your smile.

02. Get Your Custom Treatment Plan

Your orthodontist will take digital scans or impressions of your teeth. They will then use advanced 3D imaging to create a fully personalized treatment plan. You’ll see a step-by-step preview of how your smile will transform over time.

03. Reveal Your New Smile

When treatment is complete, we’ll gently remove your self-ligating braces quickly and comfortably. To maintain your results, we’ll fit you with a custom retainer so you can keep smiling confidently for years to come.
Ready to Begin?

We’re here to help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. Let’s get started!

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Image Orthodontics

Same-Day Self-Ligating Braces

We know how valuable your time is.

You have school, a job, or maybe even both. We know your time is valuable, which is why you can get your self-ligating braces the same day as your consultation.

The whole process combines consultation, examination, and the application of braces, which usually takes just 1 to 2 hours.

Book a consultation with us to discover if you are eligible for same-day braces.

Ready To Schedule?

Schedule a free consultation to create your custom treatment plan.

Why Should You Choose Us?

At Image Orthodontics, we combine cutting-edge technology, decades of experience, and patient-centered care. We are proud to offer:

  • Certified In-Ovation® System Providers
  • Flexible financing and insurance options
  • Multilingual staff and diverse locations across San Francisco and other areas in California
  • Digital impressions and 3D imaging for accuracy
  • Comfortable, spa-like atmosphere with a friendly atmosphere

Where Can You Find Us?

Image Orthodontics proudly serves patients throughout the San Francisco Bay Area, Sacramento, and the Central Valley:


Use our location finder to connect with the nearest orthodontist and take the first step toward your new smile today!

We also offer

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Retainers
Retain My Smile Program
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Save time!
Same-Day Braces
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Traditional
Metal Braces
A young man with clear braces smiles in an outdoor setting, reflecting the expert touch of his orthodontist against a backdrop of blurred greenery.
Transparent Braces
Clear Braces

If you're searching for the best orthodontist, you've found us!

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Image Orthodontics!

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How To Care For Your Braces At Home

Watch this helpful video to understand how to take care of your braces (and your smile) to ensure a healthy, successful outcome of your orthodontic treatment.

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Image Orthodontics

Frequently Asked Questions

about In-Ovation Self-ligating Braces

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On average, In-Ovation® treatment lasts 18 to 24 months. Some patients may finish sooner, though, depending on individual needs.

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In-Ovation® braces are self-ligating, meaning they don’t use elastic ties. This makes them more comfortable, hygienic, and, in certain cases, faster than traditional braces.

braces adult teen 5 1366

In-Ovation® braces use low-force mechanics that reduce pressure on teeth and surrounding tissues. That usually makes them more comfortable for some patients.

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Absolutely. In-Ovation® is a good choice for adults seeking a discreet, efficient way to straighten their teeth.

Braces for Adults and Teens

Costs depend on case complexity and treatment duration. We offer flexible financing and work with most insurance plans.

Adult with braces smiling

We use In-Ovation® because it offers a combination of comfort, efficiency, and good results. It may also minimize the number of office visits.

Adult with braces smiling

We offer both metal and clear In-Ovation® brackets. During your consultation, we’ll help you choose the option that best fits your aesthetic and orthodontic goals.

Adult with braces smiling

Generally, yes. Patients often report less initial discomfort and reduced soreness after adjustments compared to traditional braces.

Adult with braces smiling

Appointments are typically scheduled every 6 to 10 weeks, depending on your progress. Less frequent than with traditional braces.
Start your consultation today
Ready to design your new smile?

We’re excited you’re ready to take the first step toward your perfect, amazing smile! See you soon!

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Logo for Image Orthodontics featuring the word "IMAGE" in blue with a smiley face in the letter "G," emphasizing their expertise in clear aligners, above "ORTHODONTICS" in gray text.

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To us, a smile is more than just a smile.

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