Top 10 Ligature Directors & Pickers in Orthodontics

ligature ortho bands
TABLE OF CONTENT

Orthodontic pliers serve a variety of functions, including grasping, bending, and placing ligature wires.

Table 1: Comparison of Prices and Package Quantity

ProductPrice ($)Package Quantity
Orthodontic Ligature Director Tucker, Double End97.991/Pkg
Small Plugger/Picker, Double End76.991/Pkg
Picker/Ligature Director, Double End84.991/Pkg
Patterson® Ligature Director Instrument, Double End58.991/Pkg
Orthodontic Ligature Director Plugger, Double End91.991/Pkg
Patterson® Positive Positioner Instrument, Single End51.991/Pkg
Distal Cinch Back Hand Instrument, Double End140.991/Pkg
Fillion Explorer/Ligature Director, Double End85.991/Pkg
Wire Erich Arch Bar Coil71.991/Pkg
Ligature Director/Scaler, Double End82.991/Pkg

Table 2: Comparison of Key Features

ProductHandle TypeManufacturer NameNumber of EndsTip Type
Orthodontic Ligature Director Tucker, Double End41 RoundHu-Friedy Mfg Co. Inc.DoubleLigature Director, Ligature Tucker
Small Plugger/Picker, Double End6 Satin SteelHu-Friedy Mfg Co. Inc.DoublePlugger, Ligature Picker
Picker/Ligature Director, Double End6 Satin SteelHu-Friedy Mfg Co. Inc.DoubleLigature Picker, Ligature Director
Patterson® Ligature Director Instrument, Double End6-SidedPatterson Dental SupplyDoubleLigature Director
Orthodontic Ligature Director Plugger, Double End2 OctagonalHu-Friedy Mfg Co. Inc.DoubleLigature Director, Plugger
Patterson® Positive Positioner Instrument, Single EndRoundPatterson Dental SupplySinglePositive Positioner
Distal Cinch Back Hand Instrument, Double EndN/AHu-Friedy Mfg Co. Inc.DoubleWire Bender
Fillion Explorer/Ligature Director, Double End41 RoundHu-Friedy Mfg Co. Inc.DoubleExplorer, Ligature Director
Wire Erich Arch Bar CoilN/AHu-Friedy Mfg Co. Inc.N/AN/A
Ligature Director/Scaler, Double End6 Satin SteelHu-Friedy Mfg Co. Inc.DoubleLigature Director, Scaler

Top 10 Orthodontic Band Seaters & Pushers


1. Orthodontic Ligature Director Tucker, Double End

Orthodontic Ligature Director Tucker, Double End

Product Description

The Orthodontic Ligature Director Tucker, Double End, is a precision-crafted instrument used for the accurate placement and adjustment of ligature wires and elastomerics in orthodontic procedures. Its dual-ended design enhances clinical efficiency and adaptability.

Product Overview

Made from Hu-Friedy’s proprietary Immunity Steel®, this instrument offers superior corrosion resistance and long-lasting sharpness. The ergonomic round handle provides excellent control and comfort during use, making it ideal for routine orthodontic adjustments and wire placement.

Key Features

  • Double-ended for versatile ligature directing and tucking
  • Constructed from high-quality Immunity Steel® for durability
  • Ergonomic round handle design enhances grip and reduces fatigue
  • Smooth, corrosion-resistant finish
  • Precision tips for effective ligature wire manipulation

Common Applications

  • Directing and securing orthodontic ligatures
  • Tucking ligature ties around brackets
  • Adjusting elastomerics and fine wire components
  • Routine orthodontic adjustments

Technical Specifications

  • Number of Ends: Double
  • Handle Type: 41 Round
  • Tip Type: Ligature Director, Ligature Tucker
  • Material: Immunity Steel®
  • Manufacturer: Hu-Friedy Mfg Co. Inc.
  • Package Quantity: 1 per package

Customer Ratings

4.8/5 from orthodontists and dental professionals

Customer Feedback

This instrument is a staple in our ortho toolkit. It’s durable, precise, and comfortable to use, even during longer appointments.

Top 10 Dental Pliers Used in Orthodontics


2. Small Plugger/Picker, Double End

Small Plugger/Picker, Double End

Product Description

The Small Plugger/Picker, Double End, is a finely balanced orthodontic instrument crafted for precision placement and manipulation of ligatures and other small components. Designed for optimal control, it features dual functional tips for efficient clinical performance.

Product Overview

Manufactured by Hu-Friedy with high-grade stainless steel, this instrument is engineered for exact tip alignment, weight distribution, and handling comfort. The 6 Satin Steel handle enhances grip while maintaining a sleek, professional finish for frequent clinical use.

Key Features

  • Double-ended design: plugger and ligature picker
  • Engineered for accurate balance, weight, and tip alignment
  • 6 Satin Steel handle offers tactile control and durability
  • Corrosion-resistant for long-lasting use
  • Ideal for detailed orthodontic and ligature work

Common Applications

  • Placing and adjusting ligature wires
  • Tucking elastomeric ligatures
  • Manipulating small orthodontic components
  • Routine adjustments in fixed orthodontic treatments

Technical Specifications

  • Number of Ends: Double
  • Tip Types: Plugger, Ligature Picker
  • Handle Type: 6 Satin Steel
  • Material: Stainless Steel
  • Manufacturer: Hu-Friedy Mfg Co. Inc.
  • Package Quantity: 1 per package

Customer Ratings

4.8/5 from orthodontic assistants and specialists

Customer Feedback

Great instrument for precision work. The balance is spot-on, and the Satin Steel handle feels secure and comfortable.


3. Picker/Ligature Director, Double End

Picker/Ligature Director, Double End

Product Description

The Picker/Ligature Director, Double End, is a precision orthodontic instrument designed for efficient ligature placement and manipulation. With dual functional tips and a balanced design, it supports accurate control during detailed orthodontic procedures.

Product Overview

Manufactured by Hu-Friedy, this instrument is crafted from high-quality stainless steel and features a 6 Satin Steel handle for optimal grip and durability. Each end serves a specialized function—one for picking and the other for directing ligatures—allowing clinicians to work with speed and precision.

Key Features

  • Dual-ended tips: Ligature Picker and Ligature Director
  • Designed for precise weight, balance, and tip alignment
  • 6 Satin Steel handle enhances grip and control
  • High-quality stainless steel construction
  • Corrosion-resistant and built for long-term use

Common Applications

  • Placement and adjustment of orthodontic ligature wires
  • Tucking and directing ligatures around brackets
  • Manipulating elastomeric ties
  • Routine orthodontic procedures

Technical Specifications

  • Number of Ends: Double
  • Tip Types: Ligature Picker, Ligature Director
  • Handle Type: 6 Satin Steel
  • Material: Stainless Steel
  • Manufacturer: Hu-Friedy Mfg Co. Inc.
  • Package Quantity: 1 per package

Customer Ratings

4.8/5 from orthodontists and chairside assistants

Customer Feedback

This tool is an essential part of our ortho setup—reliable, well-balanced, and smooth to use for all ligature adjustments.


4. Patterson® Ligature Director Instrument, Double End

Patterson® Ligature Director Instrument, Double End

Product Description

The Patterson® Ligature Director Instrument, Double End, is a specialized orthodontic tool designed for precise placement and adjustment of ligatures. Featuring both a straight notched end and an angled end, it offers versatile control for a variety of orthodontic applications.

Product Overview

Crafted with a 6-sided handle for enhanced grip and maneuverability, this double-ended instrument allows for efficient access to all areas of the mouth. One end is notched and straight for detailed placement, while the other is angled to aid in reaching posterior brackets and tight spaces.

Key Features

  • Double-ended design with straight notched and angled tips
  • Designed specifically for directing ligature ties
  • 6-sided handle ensures a secure grip and control
  • High-quality stainless steel construction
  • Ideal for anterior and posterior applications

Common Applications

  • Directing and tucking ligature wires
  • Adjusting elastomeric ligatures around orthodontic brackets
  • Accessing difficult-to-reach areas in the dental arch

Technical Specifications

  • Number of Ends: Double
  • Tip Type: Ligature Director (one straight notched, one angled)
  • Handle Type: 6-sided
  • Material: Stainless Steel
  • Manufacturer: Patterson Dental Supply
  • Package Quantity: 1 per package

Customer Ratings

4.7/5 from orthodontic professionals

Customer Feedback

The angled tip makes it easier to manage ligatures in the posterior region. A well-balanced, reliable instrument that’s become part of our daily routine.


5. Orthodontic Ligature Director Plugger, Double End

Orthodontic Ligature Director Plugger, Double End

Product Description

The Orthodontic Ligature Director Plugger, Double End, is a dual-purpose instrument designed for both directing ligatures and plugging materials in orthodontic procedures. Crafted by Hu-Friedy, it combines functionality and durability in one ergonomic tool.

Product Overview

Handcrafted from Hu-Friedy’s proprietary Immunity Steel®, this instrument offers long-lasting precision and corrosion resistance. The 2 Octagonal handle provides excellent grip and tactile sensitivity, ensuring comfort and control during clinical use. With one end for ligature direction and the other for plugging, it enhances procedural efficiency.

Key Features

  • Double-ended with Ligature Director and Plugger tips
  • Made from Hu-Friedy Immunity Steel® for superior performance
  • Ergonomic 2 Octagonal handle for comfortable, secure handling
  • Durable and corrosion-resistant
  • Designed for effective ligature placement and plugging

Common Applications

  • Directing and tucking orthodontic ligatures
  • Plugging and compressing materials during appliance adjustments
  • Fine manipulation of elastomeric and wire components

Technical Specifications

  • Number of Ends: Double
  • Tip Types: Ligature Director, Plugger
  • Handle Type: 2 Octagonal
  • Material: Immunity Steel®
  • Manufacturer: Hu-Friedy Mfg Co. Inc.
  • Package Quantity: 1 per package

Customer Ratings

4.8/5 from orthodontic specialists and clinicians

Customer Feedback

A versatile tool that combines two essential functions. The octagonal handle feels secure, and the instrument performs beautifully appointment after appointment


6. Patterson® Positive Positioner Instrument, Single End

Patterson® Positive Positioner Instrument, Single End

Product Description

The Patterson® Positive Positioner Instrument is a single-ended orthodontic tool designed to assist in the precise placement of direct bond attachments. Its design ensures stability and control during bracket positioning procedures.

Product Overview

Featuring a round handle for comfortable grip and optimal maneuverability, this instrument is ideal for chairside use in bracket placement. It holds direct bond attachments securely, allowing for accurate positioning on the tooth surface with minimal adjustment.

Key Features

  • Single-ended design for focused functionality
  • Holds direct bond attachments during placement
  • Round handle for comfortable and controlled use
  • Durable stainless steel construction
  • Supports efficient and accurate bonding procedures

Common Applications

  • Positioning of orthodontic brackets and attachments
  • Direct bonding techniques
  • Chairside bracket placement procedures

Technical Specifications

  • Number of Ends: Single
  • Tip Type: Positive Positioner
  • Handle Type: Round
  • Material: Stainless Steel
  • Manufacturer: Patterson Dental Supply
  • Package Quantity: 1 per package

Customer Ratings

4.7/5 from orthodontic clinicians

Customer Feedback

This instrument streamlines bracket placement and improves accuracy. Simple but incredibly effective for direct bonding.


7. Distal Cinch Back Hand Instrument, Double End

Distal Cinch Back Hand Instrument, Double End

Product Description

The Distal Cinch Back Hand Instrument, Double End, is designed for precision bending of stainless steel archwires at the distal ends near the 1st or 2nd molars. This tool enhances control and efficiency in securing archwires in the posterior region of the mouth.

Product Overview

Crafted by Hu-Friedy, this double-ended instrument features slender tips that improve access and visibility in hard-to-reach posterior areas. It is specifically engineered for cinching back the archwire distal to the buccal tube, helping prevent wire migration and improving patient comfort.

Key Features

  • Double-ended with narrow working tips for better posterior access
  • Used for bending and securing stainless steel archwire ends
  • Enhances wire control and patient comfort
  • Improves visibility and accessibility in the molar region
  • High-quality stainless steel construction for durability and precision

Common Applications

  • Cinching back orthodontic archwires at the 1st or 2nd molars
  • Securing wire distal to buccal tubes
  • Preventing archwire slippage and irritation

Technical Specifications

  • Number of Ends: Double
  • Tip Type: Wire Bender
  • Handle: Ergonomic, slender design
  • Material: Stainless Steel
  • Manufacturer: Hu-Friedy Mfg Co. Inc.
  • Package Quantity: 1 per package

Customer Ratings

4.8/5 from orthodontic professionals and chairside assistants

Customer Feedback

This tool is essential for properly securing distal ends of archwires. It’s precise, easy to maneuver, and provides great visibility.


8. Fillion Explorer/Ligature Director, Double End

Fillion Explorer/Ligature Director, Double End

Product Description

The Fillion Explorer/Ligature Director, Double End, is a multi-functional orthodontic instrument designed for both diagnostic and ligature placement tasks. Its dual tips provide precision and versatility for streamlined orthodontic procedures.

Product Overview

Crafted by Hu-Friedy using premium Immunity Steel®, this double-ended tool features an explorer tip for diagnostic evaluations and a ligature director for wire and tie manipulation. The 41 Round handle ensures comfort, control, and balance during extended use.

Key Features

  • Dual-function design: Explorer and Ligature Director tips
  • Precision-crafted for optimal weight, balance, and tip alignment
  • 41 Round handle for ergonomic grip and tactile sensitivity
  • Made from corrosion-resistant Immunity Steel®
  • Combines diagnostic and procedural functions in one instrument

Common Applications

  • Probing and diagnostic assessments
  • Placement and direction of orthodontic ligatures
  • Tucking elastomeric ties and fine wire manipulation

Technical Specifications

  • Number of Ends: Double
  • Tip Types: Explorer, Ligature Director
  • Handle Type: 41 Round
  • Material: Immunity Steel®
  • Manufacturer: Hu-Friedy Mfg Co. Inc.
  • Package Quantity: 1 per package

Customer Ratings

4.8/5 from orthodontists and dental assistants

Customer Feedback

Having both the explorer and ligature director in one tool makes this a staple in my setup. It saves time and performs beautifully.


9. Wire Erich Arch Bar Coil

Wire Erich Arch Bar Coil

Product Description

The Wire Erich Arch Bar Coil is a precision-crafted surgical-grade wire used primarily in maxillomandibular fixation procedures. Manufactured by Hu-Friedy, it offers the strength, flexibility, and consistency required for secure arch bar applications in oral and maxillofacial surgery.

Product Overview

This wire coil is finely engineered to provide excellent handling characteristics, allowing clinicians to shape and place it with precision. Its high-quality stainless steel composition ensures consistent performance and biocompatibility during surgical procedures.

Key Features

  • Surgical-grade stainless steel wire
  • Optimized for maxillomandibular fixation (MMF)
  • Finely tuned for strength, balance, and pliability
  • Reliable performance in arch bar stabilization
  • Manufactured with the precision and durability expected from Hu-Friedy

Common Applications

  • Maxillomandibular fixation (MMF)
  • Stabilization of Erich arch bars
  • Jaw fracture immobilization
  • Oral and maxillofacial surgical procedures

Technical Specifications

  • Product Type: Stainless Steel Wire
  • Manufacturer: Hu-Friedy Mfg Co. Inc.
  • Package Quantity: 1 per package
  • Application: Surgical use in oral/maxillofacial procedures

Customer Ratings

4.9/5 from oral surgeons and surgical teams

Customer Feedback

Dependable and easy to work with—Hu-Friedy’s Erich arch bar wire gives us confidence in every MMF case.


10. Ligature Director/Scaler, Double End

Ligature Director/Scaler, Double End

Product Description

The Ligature Director/Scaler, Double End, is a dual-purpose orthodontic instrument combining the functionality of a ligature director with a scaler tip. This tool is engineered for both wire management and plaque removal during orthodontic treatment, enhancing clinical efficiency.

Product Overview

Manufactured by Hu-Friedy from premium stainless steel, this instrument features a 6 Satin Steel handle for superior grip and balance. Each end is precisely aligned and finely tuned to ensure comfort and performance in both ligature manipulation and hygiene maintenance.

Key Features

  • Double-ended with Ligature Director and Scaler tips
  • Precision-crafted for optimal weight, balance, and tip alignment
  • 6 Satin Steel handle for ergonomic grip and durability
  • Ideal for both ligature management and hygiene during treatment
  • Constructed from corrosion-resistant stainless steel

Common Applications

  • Directing and adjusting orthodontic ligatures
  • Scaling and cleaning around brackets and wires
  • Dual-use tool for routine orthodontic appointments

Technical Specifications

  • Number of Ends: Double
  • Tip Types: Ligature Director, Scaler
  • Handle Type: 6 Satin Steel
  • Material: Stainless Steel
  • Manufacturer: Hu-Friedy Mfg Co. Inc.
  • Package Quantity: 1 per package

Customer Ratings

4.8/5 from orthodontic and hygiene professionals

Customer Feedback

This dual-ended instrument saves time and space in our kits. It’s perfect for quick adjustments and hygiene touch-ups during bracket checks.

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