The Advantages of Damon Braces
Damon system braces are a relatively new orthodontic
treatment. While they cost somewhat more than standard metal braces,
they do have quite a few advantages that may make them a option worth
considering.
What Are Damon Braces?
The Damon system is an orthodontic treatment that uses
self-ligating
braces. This means that rather than attaching the arch wire to the
brackets with elastic ligatures, the brackets themselves have a
component that closes around the wire to keep it attached.
What Are the Advantages of This System?
The
advantages of a self-ligating system over standard braces are
significant. Aesthetically, metal Damon system brackets are less
noticeable than the brackets of traditional metal braces. But since both
conventional and Damon system braces now come in clear versions for the
image conscious, this argument is not as persuasive as it might once
have been.
What can't be easily overlooked, however, is the reduced treatment time that can be experienced using the Damon system. In a
comparative study,
Damon patients had treatment times that were more than a half a year
shorter than patients with traditional metal braces. Damon patients had
47.8 percent fewer appointments as compared to the metal braces group in
order to get their smiles looking great.
Because no friction is
involved by using elastic or metal ligatures, your teeth can slide more
freely, thus shortening the treatment time, as well as causing less pain
during treatment.
The elastics associated with conventional
braces can also accumulate bacteria and plaque and often become
discolored with different foods and beverages. By eliminating these
ligatures, the Damon system can lead to better oral health during
orthodontic treatment, making your smile that much healthier when the
braces come off.
Is It Worth It?
Consult
with your orthodontist to determine whether Damon braces are a good
option for you, whether your insurance will cover the treatment and
whether you can both agree that the treatment is worth the extra cost.
Whichever treatment you choose, the smile that results will be more than
worth the time and money invested in creating it.