Self-ligating orthodontic bracket and method of making same

An orthodontic bracket (10, 200, 300, 400) for coupling an archwire (18) with a tooth comprises a bracket body (12, 202, 302, 402) configured to be mounted to the tooth and a clip (14, 204, 304, 404). A clip slot (48, 206, 410) extends through the bracket body transversely to the archwire slot (18). Upon deflection of the clip (14, 204, 304, 404), it contacts the bracket body (12, 202, 302, 402) at locations that were not in contact before the deflection. The clip (14, 204, 304, 404) may also have various forms and include various structures that cooperate with the body (12, 202, 302, 402) when the clip (14, 204, 304, 404) is deflected to restrict or stop the deflection. The orthodontic bracket (10, 200, 300, 400) may comprise a securing mechanism (94, 246) that is configured to secure the clip (14, 204, 304, 404) in the closed position. A method of manufacturing a shaped unsintered body for use in manufacturing an orthodontic bracket is provided. A portion of the sinterable particles may be removed using a stream of energy to yield a plurality of posts which are then deformed.