Not so long ago, straightening your smile could be a long and sometimes painful process. Past versions of braces were bulkier and less comfortable than the ones we use today, and while the end results were worth it, the journey certainly wasn’t easy.
Fortunately, modern orthodontics has made some amazing strides in recent years! Patients now have more options than ever when it comes to improving their oral health and achieving a beautiful smile. From traditional metal braces to clear aligner therapy, there’s something to fit every patient’s specific needs.
Here at Foothill Orthodontics, we’re proud to offer Damon Clear braces to give our patients an easier orthodontic journey with braces that are fast, comfortable, and virtually invisible. Since the Damon system is relatively new, you may not know what it is or how it works. Let’s take a closer look at how this innovative system allows us to deliver faster treatment with fewer appointments, greater comfort, and incredible results!
What are Damon Clear braces? How do they work?
Unlike traditional braces that use elastic tie-ins, Damon braces are self-ligating. That means no elastic or metal ties are required. Instead, the Damon system uses unique high-tech wires to straighten the teeth faster with fewer adjustments and less pressure. Brackets are connected with a “shape memory” wire that is very light and doesn’t result in the pressure that traditional elastics often produce. Like traditional braces, these components come together to move the teeth gently over time.
The tie-ins typically used with traditional braces can cause friction as well as pressure, making treatment uncomfortable at times. This can sometimes add to the total treatment time as well. The Damon system works in a different way! It uses a patented slide mechanism to hold the archwire in place, reducing friction and allowing the teeth to move freely and quickly. Because there are no elastic ties, no tightening is required. It also makes the braces easier to clean and therefore less likely to attract plaque.
Just like traditional braces, Damon braces can successfully correct oral issues that range from simple to complex. In fact, they sometimes close gaps and align teeth more quickly than other treatments might. Noticeable signs of progress are often seen within a relatively short period of time, as well. This is a great way to give patients a boost of encouragement throughout their orthodontic journey!
What are the benefits of Damon Clear braces?
Not everyone is a candidate for clear aligner therapy like Invisalign. For those who need traditional treatment but want a more subtle way to straighten their smile, Damon Clear braces can be an excellent option! Some of the advantages of using Damon Clear braces include:
More comfort
Because traditional brackets use elastic ties and active clips, they can sometimes cause friction against the mouth tissue and teeth. The edges can catch on the lips and cheeks, too, leading to discomfort and pain. A self-ligating system like Damon keeps the wire in place with a sliding mechanism that allows for more freedom of movement. There’s no manual tightening necessary, and the brackets are also smoother against the cheeks and lips. Patients have reported up to 60% less discomfort with Damon braces!
Faster treatment time with fewer appointments
Since Damon’s slide mechanism doesn’t require ties, you won’t need to come into our office quite as frequently to have your elastics changed and adjustments made. The high-tech memory wire is designed to move the teeth in between appointments and at a faster pace. While the time needed in braces will always vary from case to case, some studies have shown that patients with Damon braces may finish their treatment up to six months faster than they would with traditional braces.
A better smile
The primary goals of orthodontic treatment of any type is improving oral health and achieving a beautifully aligned smile. The early phases of treatment are geared towards shifting the teeth into optimal positions by using gentle pressure over a period of time. Damon Clear braces are able to achieve all this and widen the arch, giving patients the most balanced smile possible.
Easier oral hygiene
No elastics means there are fewer places for plaque and bacteria to collect during treatment. Not only that, but no wires and ties makes brushing and flossing easier and more effective. This reduces the risk of developing cavities or gum disease, and gives patients a cleaner, healthier smile throughout the orthodontic process.
Experience Damon Clear braces with Foothill Orthodontics
Here at Foothill Orthodontics, we believe Damon Clear braces can be a great option for patients fast, convenient, and discreet treatment!
Traditional braces have wires and brackets that extend throughout the mouth, and ties connecting the wires to the teeth. These gradually move teeth into the desired positions by applying gentle pressure. Damon braces actually guide teeth into place using a reduced amount of force, providing patients with a much more comfortable and positive orthodontic experience.
If you’ve been considering orthodontic treatment for you or your child, but aren’t sure about traditional braces, the Damon Clear braces system could be just what you’re looking for! To learn more about how Damon Clear braces can give you a more confident smile, get in touch with us today to schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Anderson or Dr. Chandler. We’ve got an experienced team just waiting to help you achieve the kind of healthy, straight smile you’ll want to share with the world!
