Self-Ligating Braces

Before applying the brackets, Dr. Emanuele and the team at Paradigm Orthodontics will collect photos and X-rays of your mouth. Our Halifax office is entirely digital, so there's no need for goopy impressions!

Sometimes we'll use our iTero Element scanner to scan each of your teeth and the layout of your gums and mouth. If necessary, this process takes 10-15 minutes and provides a highly accurate 3D view of your mouth.

After the X-Ray and optional scan, Dr. Emanuele will use this information to create your customized treatment plan. This will include how each tooth needs to be moved to get it in the best possible position.

Dr. Emanuele will decide how to place the brackets based on this information. For example, if you have some teeth that need to be tilted, the placement of those brackets will be different than the placement of brackets for teeth that need to be turned.

Once we attach your brackets, Dr. Emanuele will insert the wire. Bends in the wire will provide different types of pressure on different teeth to create precisely controlled movements.

Paradigm Orthodontics uses self-ligating metal braces, which replace the elastic ties found on traditional braces with a tiny built-in clip. This allows the archwire to glide with lighter, steadier pressure — meaning less soreness after adjustments, shorter appointments, and fewer visits overall. Dr. Andrew Emanuele also pairs these brackets with 3D digital planning and an iTero Element scanner, so your treatment is fully customized from day one.

Self-ligating metal braces at Paradigm Orthodontics can treat a wide range of cases — from mild gaps and crowding to more complex issues like crossbites that might otherwise require surgery. The system is suited for kids, teens, and adults alike, making it a dependable option at any stage of life.

Treatment time varies for every patient because every mouth is different. On average, patients at Paradigm Orthodontics wear metal braces for about 18 to 22 months, though some finish in as few as six months and others with more complex cases may take over three years. Dr. Emanuele will give you a clearer estimate during your consultation based on your specific treatment plan.

Yes. Patients at Paradigm Orthodontics typically begin to see visible changes fairly early in their treatment, which helps build confidence throughout the process.

Modern metal braces are significantly more comfortable than older versions. Smaller, lower-profile brackets and lighter wires reduce irritation, and the self-ligating design means no tight elastic ties pulling on your teeth. Many patients — including kids heading to school and adults returning to work — find adjustments much more manageable than they expected.

Self-ligating brackets are smaller and have no elastic rings, which means fewer places for food to get trapped. Most patients find brushing and flossing feel closer to their normal routine, which helps protect gum health and reduces the risk of cavities during treatment.

Not necessarily. Because the wire in self-ligating brackets slides freely with less friction, teeth can shift more smoothly along the planned path. Many patients at Paradigm Orthodontics actually reach their finish line a bit sooner than they would with older metal braces systems.

Yes. Metal braces don't require some of the more complex technology or expensive equipment that newer treatments involve, which makes them an affordable, durable, and time-tested solution. They remain the most common orthodontic treatment chosen by patients in Halifax year after year.

Paradigm Orthodontics offers a free consultation at their Halifax office located at 1535 Dresden Row, Suite 211. You can book online or call (902) 406-2406. A virtual consultation option is also available.