Unlike traditional metal braces, Damon braces are self-litigating appliances. Instead of regularly scheduling in-office visits to have them tightened and adjusted, Damon braces have an innovative slide mechanism that allows them to move naturally with the teeth as new levels of alignment are achieved. In addition to requiring less maintenance, these braces are also believed to provide longer-lasting and more impressive results.
Damon Braces Apply Less Force When Straightening the Teeth
Despite their fairly similar appearance, Damon braces even perform differently than traditional metal braces in terms of how they realign the teeth. These structures apply significantly less force throughout the realignment process. Moreover, while metal braces often require supplemental treatments in the form of palatal expanders and tooth extraction, these do not.
They are connected to a memory wire that has simple slide brackets to minimize the force, discomfort and pressure of the realignment process for a safer, more effective and more comfortable treatment overall.
The Benefits
There are a number of impressive benefits that patients can gain by opting to have Damon braces installed as opposed to traditional wire braces. Foremost among these is a more aesthetically-pleasing smile during the treatment process given that these structures are highly inconspicuous. People can also enjoy shorter treatment times. Traditional wire braces average over seven months of additional treatment time in comparison to Damon braces.
With less in-office maintenance, less friction and less discomfort, appliances like these are very comfortable and easy to use. Damon braces additionally create fewer hiding places for destructive mouth bacteria and the development of plaque. For patients, this means having a far lower likelihood of experiencing deterioration and erosion of the natural teeth while correcting alignment issues.
Important Things to Know Before Committing to This Treatment
It is important to note that Damon braces are not entirely without the discomfort that all realignment procedures are known to entail. These appliances tend to feel awkward in the mouth for the first several days after installation, but the associated discomfort should be minimal and will abate all on its own.
People should have realistic expectations for the treatment process and a willingness to practice good, regular oral care. Although there is a lesser need for in-office maintenance and fewer places for plaque and bacteria to hide, Damon braces still require diligent brushing, flossing and rinsing habits. These efforts are vital for ensuring that the natural tooth structures maintain their health and integrity all throughout treatment.
How to Know If Damon Braces Are Right for You
At Ragan Orthodontics, there are several treatments that can be used to correct crooked or misaligned teeth. Damon braces tend to be ideal for people who want a fairly inconspicuous and easy-to-manage solution. These structures limit the need for complex, multi-pronged treatment plans by resolving a host of alignment-related issues all on their own and while optimizing the natural layout of the mouth interior.
Ragan Orthodontics has three locations in the Dallas area. Contact our office today to schedule your appointment to learn more about how Damon braces can benefit you.