Orthodontic treatment isn’t just for teens. More often, patients of all ages are choosing to address lifelong functional and aesthetic issues caused by crooked teeth.

Advancements in dental materials and technology have made it easier than ever to correct crooked teeth with less discomfort, embarrassment, and treatment time than in the past. At any given time, more than 4 million people are wearing braces in the United States.

The Damon Smile system uses self-ligating braces, which provide a more comfortable and less noticeable alternative to traditional metal braces. The innovative Damon Clear® braces used to achieve a Damon Smile are less noticeable while providing effective treatment.

In this blog, orthodontist Emanuel Mizrahi, DDS, of Forest Hills Orthodontic Associates in Forest Hills, New York, explains how Damon Clear self-ligating braces can deliver the smile you desire without many of the common complaints associated with traditional metal braces.

How the Damon system works

Damon Clear self-ligating braces consist of brackets that are bonded to your teeth and wires that are threaded through the brackets. Just like traditional metal braces, your teeth are moved by sliding brackets along a wire. It’s the wire, not the brackets, that do the work.

Metal ties or elastic bands hold the wires in place with traditional metal braces. However, Damon Clear braces hold the wires in place with a door mechanism or slide that is part of each individual bracket.

The unique bracket structure is what sets the Damon Smile apart from other types of orthodontic treatments. The slide mechanism moves your teeth without the force used in metal braces, providing a more comfortable and natural straightening process.

An additional advantage of Damon Clear braces is that most of the appliance components are clear. The virtually invisible brackets can help you avoid the embarrassment involved in wearing traditional metal braces as an adult.

Slide mechanisms vs. elastic bands

The elastic bands used with metal braces loosen over time and require replacement. This requires regular office visits in which new bands are applied and the wires are tightened. Most patients experience soreness and discomfort after these appointments as their teeth adjust to the increased friction and pressure of tight, new bands.

The slide mechanism used in Damon Clear self-ligating braces doesn’t exert the uncomfortable binding and friction caused by elastic ties. The mechanism allows the brackets to move naturally and gradually with your teeth as they reposition. Since this requires less pressure, you’re likely to feel less discomfort during treatment.

Orthodontic treatment with self-ligating braces can reduce the amount of time you spend in our office, because there’s no need for regular elastic band replacements. Typically, a self-ligating treatment plan involves fewer office visits with longer intervals between them.

While the gentler approach causes less discomfort, self-ligating braces can correct many of the same types of orthodontic problems that metal braces with bands can fix. Self-ligating braces can be used to improve the following orthodontic issues:

  • Uneven chewing or biting function
  • Overbite, crossbite, or underbite
  • Gapped teeth
  • Crowded teeth

Better dental hygiene

The design of self-ligating braces makes it easier to maintain oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment. The sticky elastic bands used with metal braces can trap cavity-causing bacteria, which can lead to a higher risk of developing bad breath and tooth decay.

Since self-ligating braces are easier to clean, you can more easily maintain healthy teeth and gums during orthodontic treatment. The result is a shining, straight smile that will last a lifetime.

Learn more about the Damon Smile and how it can deliver the smile you desire. Book an appointment over the phone with Forest Hills Orthodontic Associates today.