| abstract |
A self ligating orthodontic bracket comprising a U-shaped ligating spring member movable between slot open and closed positions on the bracket body is adapted for reception of an additional external ligating member, such as an elastomeric hoop or loop, by providing the spring member in its occlusal portion at least adjacent its junction with the lingual portion with a mesial distal extending spring slot in which the additional ligature is received and securely retained, the slot opening at least partly lingually and being convex in the labial gingival direction; preferably the slot opens both occlusally and lingually. Preferably also the gingival surface of the bracket body is provided with a mesial distal extending gingivally-opening body slot, convex in the occlusal direction, for reception and retention of an external additional ligating wire or elastomeric hoop engaged in the spring slot. Further, the mesial and distal surfaces of the bracket body are provided with respective grooves that cooperate with the slots for reception and retention of the additional ligating wire or hoop; the slots and grooves together may form a headed post for retention on the bracket of additional orthodontic elements such as a traction spring or a small hoop providing braking against sliding of the bracket along the wire. |