Self-ligating orthodontic bracket

A method of assembling an orthodontic bracket assembly, the bracket assembly including a base defining an archwire slot and having a lingual surface attachable to a tooth, an insert, and a locking member including a lingual portion, the method comprising the acts of:

• defining a recess in the lingual surface;
• securing the insert in the recess to thereby define a slot;
• and
• positioning the lingual portion of the locking member in the slot to support the locking member on the base such that the lingual portion is movable in the slot between an open position, in which the locking member permits access to the archwire slot and a closed position, in which the locking member inhibits access to the archwire slot.

An orthodontic bracket assembly comprising:

• a base defining an archwire slot and having a lingual surface attachable to a tooth, the base defining a recess extending from the lingual surface;
• an insert secured in the recess, a slot being at least partially defined by the insert, the insert having an insert lingual surface attachable to the tooth, the insert lingual surface having a non-smooth configuration, the insert lingual surface being substantially flush with adjacent portions of the lingual surface of the base and having a concave shape to facilitate attachment to a tooth;
• and
• a locking member including a lingual portion positioned in the slot to support the locking member on the base, the lingual portion being movable in the slot between an open position, in which the locking member permits access to the archwire slot, and a closed position, in which the locking member inhibits access to the archwire slot.