Passive self-ligating brackets use a rigid slide to close the bracket slot and retain the archwire without actively pressing it toward the slot floor. Friction, resistance to sliding, rotation control, and torque expression vary with archwire size, slot clearance, tooth position, and bracket–archwire angulation.

Active self-ligating brackets use a flexible spring clip to close the bracket slot. The clip becomes mechanically active only when an archwire contacts and deflects it, so its effect varies with tooth position, archwire size, archwire–slot play, and the stage of orthodontic treatment.

Active and passive self-ligating brackets differ mainly in how their closure mechanisms interact with the archwire. This guide compares spring clips and passive slides across alignment, space closure and finishing, helping orthodontic professionals understand their biomechanical characteristics and selection considerations.

1 Stable & Adaptive Fit: No intraoperative slippage, suitable for diverse oral anatomy 2 Biocompatible Material: Low irritation, improving patient compliance 3 Wide Visual Field: Fully exposed operation zone for efficient, precise work In daily orthodontic practice, workflow