What Are Damon Braces? Four Things You Should Know

Damon braces aren't your traditional braces. Nope. Rather, an orthodontic treatment uses self-ligating braces, which means the brackets themselves have a component that closes around the wire to keep it attached. In contrast, traditional braces attach the archwire to the brackets with rubber bands. The Damon braces connect to a memory wire that attaches to the slide brackets without the tightness and pressure found in traditional braces. And then, over time, they're set to move your teeth gradually. You may need a tooth extraction or palatal expander as Damon braces use less force than conventional braces.

Damon braces have a lot going for them, most notably:

• Appearance: Their clear brackets make them more aesthetically pleasing because they are virtually invisible, making them much less noticeable than traditional braces.
• Faster Treatment: Patients with Damon braces finish over seven months before those with conventional braces.
• Fewer Office Visits: With faster treatment comes fewer visits to your orthodontist to have them adjusted.
• Less Pressure and Pain: Since they gradually move your teeth, there's less pressure resulting in less pain.
• Less Friction: Less friction means less erosion of your teeth.
• Less Plaque and Bacteria Buildup: Damon braces consist of fewer materials in your mouth, and thus, fewer places for plaque and bacteria to set up camp.

With life and Damon braces, you take the good with the bad. Drawbacks for them include:

• Metal Wiring: While you can get clear brackets, metal wires are still the only choice for Damon braces.
• Irritation: Like anything new, it will take time to adjust to the feel of braces cemented onto your teeth, which could irritate your gum tissues.
• Cost: Less pain, adjustments, and time come with a slightly higher price.

So — what is the cost?  Here's the rundown on the price for Damon braces and some possible payment options.

• Cost: $3000-$6000 is the approximate range for traditional braces, according to a U.S. News & World Report article. But it depends on your location and complexity of your orthodontic treatment as Damon braces tend to cost more than traditional braces.
• Insurance: Many dental insurance plans and FSAs can be used toward Damon braces.
• Financing: Some orthodontists offer financing and payment plans if needed.

If Damon braces are for you or your child, you should protect your investment. Here's how:

• Before you brush, rinse with water to help loosen any food lodged around your braces.
• Use a brush designed for braces to brush at the gumline at a 45-degree angle.
• Next, place the toothbrush on top of the brackets, angling down to brush on top of each bracket.
• Then, reposition to slowly brush the bottom of the bracket and the wire, angling the toothbrush up.
• Be sure to brush every tooth at the gumline and above and below the brackets to remove plaque and food debris.

Start flossing daily:

• Try a floss threader to make flossing with braces easier. 
• Consider water irrigators to help flush out food particles in tight spaces.
• After brushing, help prevent cavities by rinsing with mouthwash to help remove bacteria for a healthier mouth.

Now you know all the ins and outs of self-ligating Damon braces as an alternative to traditional braces. For any questions on getting that smile of your dreams, speak to your orthodontic professional.

This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.