--- title: "Self-Ligating Braces UK | Damon, Speed and Clip Braces" url: https://virtualconsultant.online/guides/self-ligating-braces-uk description: "Self-ligating braces hold the wire with a built-in clip instead of elastic ties, and Damon or Speed systems suit some cases better than others." updated: 2026-10-07T00:00:00Z publisher: Virtual Consultant Online --- Self-Ligating Damon Fixed Braces # Self-ligating braces in the UK Self-ligating braces hold the archwire with a built-in door, latch, or spring clip built into the bracket itself, rather than the elastic or metal ties used on conventional fixed braces. Damon, Speed, In-Ovation and Empower are the main systems available in the UK — the brand matters less than whether the mechanics suit your specific diagnosis. [Start Photo Assessment](https://virtualconsultant.online/evaluations/quote) [Compare Costs](https://virtualconsultant.online/costs) ## How do self-ligating brackets hold the wire? Self-ligating brackets hold the archwire with a small built-in door, latch or spring clip that is part of the bracket itself, rather than the separate elastic or metal ties used on conventional fixed braces. Passive self-ligating systems, such as Damon, have a sliding clip that allows the wire more freedom of movement within the bracket slot in the early stages of treatment, which can reduce friction as teeth start to align. Active self-ligating systems, such as Speed, use a spring clip that presses the wire more firmly into the slot from the outset, giving the orthodontist more direct rotational and torque control over each tooth. ## What are the main self-ligating systems used in the UK? Damon is the best-known passive self-ligating system and is widely used across UK orthodontic practices. Speed is a smaller, lower-profile active system. In-Ovation and Empower are other active systems available from some providers. All of these systems achieve broadly similar clinical outcomes when used well; the specific brand matters far less than whether the mechanics are appropriate for your particular bite problem and whether your orthodontist has experience using that system routinely. ## Do self-ligating braces really work faster than regular braces? Not reliably, despite marketing claims. Because there are no elastic ties to change, individual adjustment appointments can be a little quicker and are sometimes spaced slightly further apart. However, published research comparing self-ligating and conventional braces has not consistently shown a meaningful difference in overall treatment duration. Total treatment time is still driven mainly by the complexity of the malocclusion, how the teeth and bone respond biologically to force, how consistently any elastics are worn, and the precision of the finishing stage, rather than by the ligation method used. ## Are self-ligating braces more comfortable and easier to clean? The absence of elastic ties, which can trap plaque and stain over time, can make day-to-day cleaning marginally simpler with self-ligating brackets, since there are fewer surfaces for food debris to catch on. However, soreness after the braces are first fitted or after a wire change is still normal and expected, because tooth movement always relies on the same controlled biological force regardless of the ligation system. Self-ligating braces are not a shortcut around thorough daily brushing and interdental cleaning around the brackets and wire. ## Are self-ligating braces available on the NHS? Self-ligating braces are almost always a private treatment choice in the UK and typically cost more than conventional metal braces with elastic ties. NHS-funded orthodontic treatment normally uses standard fixed braces, since NHS commissioning does not fund a specific bracket system purely on patient preference. An NHS orthodontist would only use a self-ligating system where there is a specific clinical reason to do so, rather than as a routine offering. ## Who is a good candidate for self-ligating braces? Self-ligating braces can suit patients who want the reliability and precision of fixed braces and whose orthodontist uses the chosen system routinely as part of their everyday practice, since familiarity with a specific bracket system affects how well it is used. They are not a shortcut around proper diagnostic records, a thorough treatment plan, consistent oral hygiene, or wearing retainers afterwards — all of these remain just as important as with any other type of fixed brace. ## Useful related pages [Damon Braces UK](https://virtualconsultant.online/guides/damon-braces-uk) [How Braces Work](https://virtualconsultant.online/guides/how-braces-work-uk) [Braces Tightening UK](https://virtualconsultant.online/guides/braces-tightening-adjustment-uk) [Types of Braces UK](https://virtualconsultant.online/guides/types-of-braces-uk) [Teeth Straightening Cost UK](https://virtualconsultant.online/guides/teeth-straightening-cost-uk) This guide is for general information only. It is not a diagnosis, treatment plan, or substitute for advice from a registered dentist or orthodontist. ### Compare next steps [Orthodontist Near Me](https://virtualconsultant.online/locations/orthodontic-treatment-near-me) [Clear Aligners Near Me](https://virtualconsultant.online/treatments/clear-aligners-near-me) [Invisalign Near Me](https://virtualconsultant.online/locations/invisalign-provider-near-me) [Browse Locations](https://virtualconsultant.online/locations) ### Ready for a clearer starting point? Upload guided photos and receive an indication of likely treatment options and pricing before booking appointments. [Get an Online Quote](https://virtualconsultant.online/evaluations/quote) ### Frequently Asked Questions Are self-ligating braces faster than traditional braces? Not reliably for every patient. Appointment handling can be a little quicker because there are no elastic ties to replace at each visit, and appointments may sometimes be spaced slightly further apart as a result. However, published evidence has not consistently shown that self-ligating braces finish treatment faster overall. Total treatment time is driven mainly by the complexity of the diagnosis, how well the teeth and bone respond biologically, and how consistently any elastics or aligner-style compliance elements are followed, rather than by the type of bracket used. Are Damon braces the same as self-ligating braces? Damon is one specific brand of passive self-ligating braces, not a separate category of appliance. Damon brackets use a sliding clip built into the bracket that lets the archwire move with less friction in the early stages of alignment. Other self-ligating brands, such as Speed, In-Ovation, and Empower, use different clip mechanisms — some passive, some active — but all fall under the general umbrella term self-ligating braces. Do self-ligating braces still need elastics? Yes, in many cases. Self-ligating brackets remove the need for elastic or metal ties around the archwire itself, but small elastic bands are still commonly used separately to correct the bite relationship between the upper and lower jaws, close spaces, or make fine adjustments during finishing. Self-ligation refers specifically to how the archwire is held in the bracket, not to whether elastics are used at all during treatment. Are self-ligating braces easier to keep clean? They can be marginally easier to clean around, since there are no separate elastic ties that trap plaque and stain over time the way conventional ligatures can. However, the difference is modest, and thorough daily brushing and interdental cleaning around the brackets and under the archwire remain essential with self-ligating braces just as with any other fixed brace system. Can I get self-ligating braces on the NHS? Usually not as a matter of personal preference. NHS-funded orthodontic treatment in the UK is normally provided using standard fixed braces with conventional ties, since NHS commissioning is not designed to fund a specific bracket brand or system based on what a patient would prefer. An NHS orthodontist would only use a self-ligating system where there is a specific clinical reason for that particular case. Are self-ligating braces worth the extra cost? It depends on your specific case and your orthodontist's experience with the system. Self-ligating braces are typically priced higher than conventional metal braces with elastic ties in private UK practice, but a higher price does not automatically mean a better or faster result for every patient. It is worth asking your orthodontist why they are recommending a particular system for your bite, and comparing the overall treatment plan, timeline and cost rather than focusing on the bracket type alone. Explore your options Quick links Not sure where to start? Use these quick links to explore orthodontic treatments, typical costs, and helpful guides that explain what different options involve. Whether you're researching braces or clear aligners, comparing pricing, or just getting a feel for what comes next, you can browse at your own pace and come back when you're ready to request a quote. Explore [Get Quote](https://virtualconsultant.online/evaluations/quote) [Costs](https://virtualconsultant.online/costs) [Browse Treatments](https://virtualconsultant.online/treatments) [Teeth Straightening](https://virtualconsultant.online/treatments/teeth-straightening) [Browse Problems](https://virtualconsultant.online/problems) [Locations](https://virtualconsultant.online/locations) [Near Me](https://virtualconsultant.online/locations/orthodontic-treatment-near-me) [NHS Eligibility Checker](https://virtualconsultant.online/about/do-i-qualify-for-nhs-treatment) [IOTN Score Checker](https://virtualconsultant.online/about/iotn-score-checker) [How To Take Orthodontic Photos](https://virtualconsultant.online/about/process/how-to-take-orthodontic-photos) [Online Orthodontist](https://virtualconsultant.online/guides/online-orthodontist-uk) [Research Papers](https://virtualconsultant.online/research) [Social Channels](https://virtualconsultant.online/social) ## Ready for a personalised answer? Upload guided photos and get a tailored recommendation for your teeth and bite. [Start Photo Assessment](https://virtualconsultant.online/evaluations/quote) [Find an Orthodontist](https://virtualconsultant.online/locations) Citation details Title Self-Ligating Braces UK | Damon, Speed and Clip Braces Publisher Virtual Consultant Online Published 2024-06-01 Updated 2026-10-07 URL [https://staging.virtualconsultant.online/guides/self-ligating-braces-uk](https://staging.virtualconsultant.online/guides/self-ligating-braces-uk)