Self-Ligating Braces (GO TO FACTSHEET FOR MOMS)

Conventional braces are effective in correcting misalignment problems. Discomfort, duration of treatment, and visibility make them undesirable in today’s smart world. One of the best alternatives is Self-ligating brackets also called the Damon System. In this post, you’ll read up on how self-ligating braces work. Also, their advantages and disadvantages. So let’s get going.

People Also Ask

• Is self-ligating better?

They are better than traditional braces. The design of Damon brackets allows the presence of the wire but does not have elastics. This means they are less noticeable. Treatment time is also reduced and less pain and quicker appointments. So, yes. they are better.

• Do self ligating brackets need tightening?

Self-ligating braces do need adjustments. The spring-loaded doors “tighten” the wires in place. This is instead of an elastic tie.

• Is self ligating brackets painful?

There is an amount of pain and discomfort to all orthodontic treatment. The self-ligating factor means less friction than traditional braces.

• What are Damon Brackets?

Damon brackets are like conventional metal brackets. The archwire lays inside the bracket through a spring-aided door. These types of braces have been in use since the 1930s. They have recently gained popularity due to their many benefits over conventional brackets.

How Does Self-ligating Work?

As highlighted above, a special clip instead of elastics s used. The clip helps the arch wire to guide your teeth into the desired position. It also reduces the pressure put on teeth by the elastics in traditional brackets. This decreases adjustments on the brackets. Since the orthodontist will not replace any elastic.

What Is the Difference Between Passive and Active Brackets?

There are two types of Damon brackets. Active and passive brackets. The active brackets have a thicker archwire. This is for greater pressure on the patient’s teeth. To move the teeth in a more aggressive manner into the desired position.

Active brackets also allow more control thus providing consistent and effective results. Passive brackets have a small arch wire. This means reduced friction and more mobility for the teeth. Passive brackets are best to assist the teeth movement during the initial stages of treatment.

What are the Signs That You Need Damon Brackets

• Overlapped or crowded teeth
• Front upper teeth protrude over your lower teeth
• Deep bite – Front upper teeth have covered most of your lower teeth
• Open bite – Front upper and lower teeth don’t contact each other when biting
• Underbite – Front upper teeth are inside or behind your front lower teeth
• The center of your upper and lower teeth are not aligned
• Difficulty chewing
• Uneven or excessive wearing of teeth
• Spaces between your teeth
• Your lower jaw moves to either side when biting

Advantages of Damon Brackets

Less Conspicuous

The design of Damon brackets allows the presence of the wire but does not have elastics. This means they are less noticeable almost invisible. It is also easier for patients to get accustomed to them.

Faster Treatment

Closing the clip or door on the brackets is quicker than placing elastics on each bracket. Patients of this treatment to faster when compared to those getting conventional brackets. These brackets have reduced the treatment period by six months.

Damon System patients completed it 7.2 months earlier in comparison. They also required half as many appointments for manual adjustment of the appliances. The time it takes to complete treatment depends on the kind of malocclusion.

Less Discomfort

The lack of elastic bands reduces friction and the force needed to move a patient’s teeth in place. As a result, patients experience less tooth erosion or deterioration, and reduced discomfort. Patients have reported a reduction of pain by 60%. This is when compared with conventional brackets. Additionally, these brackets also cut soreness.

Stick Free

One of the inconveniences of conventional brackets is latex on the bands and elastics trap food. This presents the ideal conditions for the formation of plaque. Damon brackets do not have rubber bands or elastics. Patients will have cleaner teeth. Because food is not trapped in them.

Patients will have cleaner teeth. Because food is not trapped in them.

Disadvantages of Damon Brackets

High Cost

The advanced system of Self-ligating brackets makes them more costly than conventional brackets.

Partially Transparent

These brackets are transparent. One can notice a metal wire running across the lower and upper teeth.

Irritating

These brackets are free from discomfort for a huge part of the treatment. There is an adjustment phase experienced by many patients. This is during the first time the orthodontist applies them. This irritation arising from this first-time experience can last a few days.

How to Care for Self-ligating Brackets

Observe Proper Oral Hygiene

For you to maintain healthy teeth when putting on Damon brackets, you need to follow an oral care program. With brackets, you are still likely to attract plaque. To avoid messing up your teeth, you should still ensure you brush and floss regularly.

Follow the Instructions of Your Orthodontist

After installation, an oral health physician may give you special instructions. Find out what to expect during the course of your treatment. The instructions you will be given depends on your specific needs and expectations.

Tooth-Friendly Diet

A tooth-friendly diet is one that is low in acidity. This includes foods like milk, bananas, eggs, and seafood. Acidic foods damage the tooth enamel. You should also reduce your intake of sugar to prevent tooth decay.

Here’s the Kicker

To correct various malocclusion, orthodontic bracket appliances are used. Self-ligating brackets are gaining popularity over other conventional models. These brackets for being comfortable, effective, and less conspicuous.

Damon brackets are not without their downsides. These brackets are not as conspicuous as many expect them to be. They are also costly, and irritating during the initial phases of treatment.

joelgluck

Dr. Joel Gluck has practiced orthodontics since 1983 when he opened his own office in Nashville. He earned his undergraduate degree at Washington University in St. Louis, and his dental degree at the University of Tennessee. Dr. Gluck then completed an orthodontic specialty residency at the University of Michigan, one of the top five orthodontic training residencies in the country. He also wrote an original thesis and received a Master of Science degree.