An orthodontic system utilizes a plurality of ligation caps securable to tooth mounted brackets for retaining an arch wire within the respective brackets. In embodiments, the ligation cap has an outwardly extending support ridge to maintain the arch wire within an arch wire slot of the bracket. In other embodiments, the ligation cap has a substantially C-shaped cross sectional profile for frictionally engaging a pair of outwardly extending wings on the bracket. A pair of symmetrically disposed dimples midway along its length dimension to prevent inadvertent mesial-distal displacement of the ligation cap body relative to the attached bracket. A removal tool with at least one actuating part is used to remove the caps from the brackets.