Transparent braces. Description of the advantages and prices of brands

Damon braces are famous for the fact that they last on average 20% less than standard braces. They look aesthetically pleasing on the teeth and do not cause discomfort to patients, therefore they are recommended for both adults and children. Damon technology allows, if necessary, to produce unique brace systems that take into account the individual characteristics of the structure of the oral cavity of each person down to the smallest detail. The products of this brand are presented in several varieties, which differ in manufacturing material, cost and functional characteristics, but they all have one thing in common: they can be used to correct a bite quickly and successfully, regardless of the level of complexity of the problem. This article will look at how the Damon manufacturers managed to achieve such an impressive result and how a short wearing period affects the effectiveness of the system. In addition, the review will talk about who can and cannot wear such braces, as well as whether patients may encounter contraindications.

About the manufacturer

Damon orthodontic structures were developed by Ormco specialists. This brand occupies a leading position among manufacturers of self-ligating braces. It has its own research base, which is geographically located in North America.

The first patented Damon orthodontic system appeared in 2000. Its author was Dwight Damon. Currently, the corporation continues to produce new generations of Damon braces. She constantly works to improve the quality characteristics of metal and ceramic structures.

Content:

Damon Clear braces are a modern system of transparent self-ligating (ligature-free) braces, which was developed relatively recently. Damon braces systems (Diamond, Damon) were developed and patented by the famous orthodontist Dwight Damon. This braces system takes its name from him.

Damon Clear braces are slightly more expensive than others, but have significantly better design quality, safety and durability. The Damon Clear bracket system is made of a special high-strength ceramic material and has an excellent aesthetic appearance.

Difference and structural features

Damon braces are non-ligature passive systems. The main feature of the mechanism is the effect of low force. To secure the structure in the oral cavity, special clamps are used to allow the arch to move. With this approach to dentition correction, the arch is securely attached to the braces, but retains some mobility, which allows minimizing friction between the elements of the system and the tooth enamel.

By interacting with the facial muscles, the Damon system promotes more comfortable tooth movement. These braces are unique in that they can be used to move the side teeth back. In such cases, standard orthodontic structures are usually equipped with additional corrective devices, but they create certain inconvenience for the patient.

Damon braces have several options (prescriptions) for placement in the oral cavity. The inclination of the groove is individually selected for each tooth, which allows creating optimal conditions for restoring the correct bite. The system works with special arches created according to its design features. The arches have the same size and shape, and are universal for the lower and upper jaws.

Contraindications

There are several cases where an orthodontist will refuse to install braces, even if it is necessary to correct the bite. In particular, age – up to 13 years. If the child still has baby teeth, the system will only prevent the jaw from forming. Even if you see that the bite will be incorrect, wait a little: in the future everything can be corrected, even after adulthood. The duration of wear will not change fundamentally;

In addition to the main contraindications, there are others. These include:

• caries and, especially, pulpitis. Before installation, you will have to visit the dentist and treat all the teeth that need it;
• inflammation of the gums. Soft tissues will react to the structure even more strongly than to food or drinks. First, cure periodontitis or periodontal disease, after which you can think about the bite;
• any other dental diseases.

As you can see, a visit to the orthodontist is preceded by a visit to other specialists at the dental clinic. By the way, we offer all types of services, so you don’t have to constantly look for a new doctor.

Principle of operation

Damon braces apply constant pressure to the teeth and gradually move them in the desired direction. The arch, fixed in the oral cavity, initially adapts to the incorrect position of the teeth. As the archwire begins to straighten, the teeth to which it is attached move with it. Its effect on the dentition increases as treatment continues.

Since Damon structures belong to the category of non-ligature systems, they independently regulate their work and redistribute pressure on the teeth. When the load on the clamp increases, the tension force of the arc in this place is reduced, and it moves in the desired direction.

Thanks to the Spin Tek latch, replacing archwires is quick and virtually effortless. Spin Tek technology has greatly simplified the performance of the orthodontic system. Reliably securing the arc, it simultaneously gives it a certain freedom of movement. In addition, the Spin Tek mechanism eliminates the possibility of spontaneous slamming of the lock during orthodontic manipulations or changing the arch.

Many patients notice changes in the position of their teeth within a month after installation. Damon braces do not have any age restrictions, since their method of action is based on a gentle mode of tooth displacement.

What is the difference between sapphire braces and ceramic braces?

Evaluating only the effectiveness of treatment, it is impossible to say whether sapphire or ceramic braces are better. They work the same way, but, unlike ceramic systems, sapphire does not have a yellowish tint, since in principle they have no color. This puts them an order of magnitude higher in terms of aesthetics. However, it is not so easy to answer unequivocally which braces are better in a particular case. Ceramics can easily be matched to the color of natural enamel, and due to its matte finish it will not glare in the light. If you have white teeth, then sapphires would definitely be a better option.

Model range of Damon braces

Ormco products are widely used in the orthodontic market. Damon designs are made from a metal alloy or ceramic. Braces models have some distinctive features, but functionally and aesthetically they harmoniously complement each other.

Damon Q. The metal model, made of high-strength steel, successfully copes with even complex cases of malocclusion. It is equipped with double grooves that allow you to adjust the treatment and introduce additional elements. Despite their versatility, this type of braces is quite compact in its parameters, has a rounded, streamlined shape and is easily attached to the oral cavity. The mechanism is equipped with Spin Tek clamps. The design of the locking fasteners allows you to replace the arches quickly and with minimal discomfort. The model is intended for adults and teenage children.

Damon Clear. The material for this system is polycrystalline aluminum. It is the most aesthetically pleasing, outwardly practically no different from the color of tooth enamel and looks like a ceramic or sapphire insert. The Damon Clear model performs the correction function in a gentle mode and is resistant to food coloring. Features a higher price range. To enhance the effect, the mechanism can be combined with other systems of a similar type. After 8-10 weeks, the patient can already see the first results of the treatment. An improved version of this design is Damon Clear 2.

Damon 3MX. The braces are made of hypoallergenic metal. They are distinguished by smooth rounded edges, have vertical grooves for special hooks and durable fastenings. Most often used in cases of severe deformation of the dentition and lack of free space. They work on a self-ligating principle and gently move teeth in the desired direction.

Damon 3. The basis of the design is a ceramic plate with a metal groove, with which the arch is attached to the tooth. The model has smoothed contours and meets high aesthetic demands. Its strength is reduced due to the combination of ceramic and plastic. It is difficult to open locks. After installation, patients experience faster adaptation to the system, but the recovery process may take a little longer.

Damon Clear 2 INSIGNIA. The uniqueness of these braces is that they are created for a specific patient.
Thanks to modern computer programs and developments, orthodontists have learned to simulate virtual projections of jaws based on panoramic images. This approach allows you to visualize the complete clinical picture and consider all possible ways to solve the problem. Using a computer, the doctor selects treatment methods and can predict the final result.

How much does it cost to install sapphire braces?

Considering that the manufacture of sapphire braces requires crystals specially grown in the laboratory, the price for the design is quite high. These are the most expensive braces of all vestibular devices. However, they are cheaper than lingual ones (located on the inside of the dentition). The price of sapphire braces is influenced mainly by the manufacturer’s brand, as well as the segment of the clinic and the qualifications of the orthodontist who carries out the treatment.

The prices in the table are indicated for a bracket system for one jaw. When planning orthodontic treatment, you should take into account that the final cost of all services will be higher. This will include the price of diagnostics (1,500 - 3,000 rubles), installation (20,000 - 30,000 rubles), correction (2,000 - 2,500 rubles per session) and retainers (10,000 - 15,000 rubles).

Prices for sapphire braces

Installing a system entirely made of sapphire costs from 82,000 rubles. Combined options, when several sapphire locks are replaced with ceramic or metal ones, will cost the patient 62,000 - 72,000 rubles.

Advantages of non-ligature products

Braces with the Ormco logo are perfect for even the most complex orthodontic problems. Their advantages include:

1. Prompt treatment times and time saving . The examination of the orthodontist and correction of the components of the system takes place quite quickly. After installation of Damon braces, follow-up visits to the dental clinic will take place at intervals of 8-10 weeks.

1. Preservation of elements of the dentition . Classic orthodontic structures in most cases require tooth extraction. This is explained by the fact that to move the dentition you need free space, which the jaw lacks. Damon systems work productively with all existing teeth, so the need for extraction occurs much less frequently.
2. Aesthetic appearance . Due to their small size and rounded shape, braces do not stand out much against the background of tooth enamel. They have virtually no effect on diction and do not cause increased salivation.
3. Safe operation . The materials from which the systems are made do not cause allergic reactions and oxidative processes in the oral cavity. There is no risk of dental complications when used correctly. After installing braces, patients usually quickly get used to the structure and do not experience discomfort while wearing it.
4. No traumatic factors . The mechanism of tooth movement is designed in such a way as to avoid damage to the periodontium and gums.
5. Fast and comfortable service . The process of installing and removing braces takes a minimum amount of time. All procedures are painless and do not require the use of any anesthetics.
6. Changing facial proportions . Transformation of bone tissue and correction of dentition affect the shape of the face and change its contours.
7. Long-term results . Correctly selected orthodontic treatment corrects the dentition in such a way that there is no need to re-install braces.

1. No ligatures . Additional elements located in the oral cavity can cause difficulty in cleaning the tooth surface from food debris. Installing ligature-free systems simplifies dental care and promotes better hygiene procedures.

The main advantages of sapphire bracket systems

For many, the term “sapphire braces” is associated with minerals of a beautiful blue hue, which are quite difficult to imagine as part of a braces system. In reality, everything is somewhat different. There is no need to worry that your mouth will turn into a chest of jewelry. Yes, the orthodontic apparatus is indeed made from sapphires, but artificially grown in laboratory conditions. Such stones have no color, which is fundamentally different from natural minerals. Among the main advantages of sapphire orthodontic systems are the following.

• Aesthetics
  . The clasps are hardly noticeable in everyday wear and sparkle effectively in bright light.
• Reliability.
  In terms of strength, sapphire braces are second only to diamond; they can withstand even serious loads.
• Immune to neon lighting.
  A useful quality of the system for nightclub lovers.
• Fast adaptation.
  The patient quickly gets used to the design, as it is polished in such a way that all corners are smoothed as much as possible.
• Resistance to staining
  . Coloring foods and drinks will not noticeably affect the color of the system.
• Hypoallergenic
  .

Photo of sapphire braces on teeth

The design of sapphire braces is such that only the plates themselves, which are attached to the teeth, are made of precious mineral. The arc remains metallic, which means it will stand out. To make the bracket system even more attractive and less noticeable, modern dentistry offers a matte arch or one lined with a composite material to match the color of the enamel. Beautiful sapphire braces with a white arch look very aesthetically pleasing, they create an excellent effect of snow-white teeth.

Is it true that sapphire brect system darkens?

If we are talking about the new generation of sapphire braces, then this is not true. Previous models had their drawbacks: due to the lack of a polishing stage in the manufacture of “old” sapphire braces, their surface remained loose and dark plaque quickly accumulated on it. That is why, if a specialist really wants to achieve an ideal result in terms of function and aesthetics, he chooses the latest generation sapphire braces system for his work.

Disadvantages of non-ligature products

With such a variety of advantages, it is very difficult to find weak points in Damon braces. However, among them we can highlight factors such as:

• Price. Installing a self-ligating system of this level requires the presence of certain skills and experience in this specific area. The high quality of products manufactured by Ormco also shows that the price of a custom design does not fall into the category of budget options. Of course, braces with ceramic elements will cost the consumer more than similar metal devices.
• Visibility of individual elements. The mechanism is attached to the front of the teeth. Therefore, during a conversation or with a wide smile, an attentive interlocutor can see some parts of the structure.
• Duration of wearing. As you know, the strength of ceramic and plastic products is lower than metal ones. In this regard, individual parts of the bracket system wear out faster and must be replaced.

How much will the treatment cost?

Ceramic transparent braces are more affordable than sapphire braces. However, the final price is influenced by many factors, ranging from the duration of the prescribed course of treatment to the name of the braces manufacturer and the level of prestige of the clinic.

Let's say you go to a clinic that belongs to the “economy” class. Then you will spend 20–40 thousand rubles on ceramic braces and clinic services. Speaking about sapphire structures, it is worth noting that their price will be much higher - from 40 to 90 thousand rubles with installation. But these numbers are not the limit. That is why it is so important to find out all the details of treatment at the clinic before it begins. This will avoid unpleasant surprises.

Medical indications and contraindications for installation

Orthodontists usually recommend using braces in cases where the patient has:

• pronounced deformation of the dentition;
• crowded teeth or large distances between them;
• presence of teeth extending beyond the row;
• slowing down or stopping the teething process;
• disproportionate development of the jaws;
• anomaly of the dental system;
• indications for implantation or prosthetics.

Among the contraindications, there are several reasons why a doctor may recommend refraining from installation:

• the presence of serious diseases that have a negative impact on the general condition of the body;
• serious disruptions in the functioning of the immune and circulatory systems;
• individual manifestations of allergic reactions;
• lack of oral hygiene;
• diagnosing diseases such as HIV, hepatitis, tuberculosis and oncological processes;
• the presence of certain mental disorders that represent an obstacle to quality orthodontic treatment;
• functional abnormalities in the functioning of the respiratory and cardiovascular systems;
• inflammatory processes of an acute and chronic nature (periodontitis, gingivitis);
• diseases with violation of the integrity of bone tissue (osteolysis, rickets, osteoporosis);
• absence of a large number of units in a row.

How to take care of your mouth

Caring for the Damon system should be almost the same as for conventional ligature braces. During the entire period of wearing them, it is recommended to brush your teeth after every meal - no matter whether you are at home or not. As a last resort, if you cannot use a toothbrush, at least use a mouthwash.

While wearing braces, the duration of brushing should be increased, ideally up to 8 minutes. Although the Damon system is designed in such a way that food residues accumulate in it to a minimum, the presence of a foreign structure in the mouth still contributes to the development of pathogenic organisms. In the medium term, in the absence of proper hygiene, this can cause gum and dental diseases.

Any braces create unwanted stress on the enamel, so while wearing them, it is recommended to brush your teeth with a paste that strengthens the enamel. To simplify the process, your doctor will advise you to purchase a specialized brush for braces. This brush differs from the usual one in its size and configuration and is able to penetrate even the most inaccessible corners of the oral cavity. You can buy this model in almost every pharmacy.

ATTENTION:

Damon technology significantly reduces the risk of developing caries compared to conventional ligature braces - but only with high-quality oral hygiene.

Stages of installing Damon braces

All orthodontic procedures are carried out in accordance with a specific medical protocol. At the preparatory stage, the doctor conducts an examination, advises the patient and helps him decide on the type of structure.

In order for the treatment process to be as effective as possible, the orthodontist must see a detailed picture of the disease. Therefore, he orders an x-ray examination of the oral cavity. Advanced clinical situations require closer attention. In such cases, volumetric modeling of the patient’s jaw may be necessary.

The preparation procedure also takes place in stages. The doctor cleans the tooth enamel from stones and plaque, tidies up carious cavities and replaces old fillings with new ones. If there is a pathological lack of space, the doctor decides to remove one or more units of the dentition.

Immediately before installing the structure, the orthodontist carefully polishes the tooth enamel and applies a special composition with an adhesive effect. Then, using dental instruments, a clasp is attached to each tooth. Thanks to the adhesive properties of the solution, the lock is securely fixed to the tooth surface.

After drying, the latch is coated with special cement, which is processed under a lamp with ultraviolet radiation. At the final stage of installation, the doctor secures the arch in the oral cavity, adjusts its length and pressure.

Adaptation to non-ligature structures is usually faster than to standard braces. Due to the roundness of the shapes and the small size of the elements, the sensation of the presence of a foreign body in the oral cavity gradually becomes less pronounced.

How to install?

The process of installing Damon sapphire braces consists of several stages:

1. Installation of a jaw retractor - for the convenience of the orthodontist, he installs a special expansion structure into the patient’s cavity. She keeps her mouth open the entire time.
2. Teeth cleaning – before the bonding procedure, the oral cavity is completely cleaned. The doctor cleans the surface with solutions and covers the enamel with a special restorative agent.
3. Installation of locks - they are attached using a special adhesive composition. The front teeth are treated first, and then the back teeth.
4. Installation of the arc - to connect the locks together, the doctor uses fasteners - an arc. It creates the necessary pressure to move a row of teeth.

Duration of treatment and frequency of dental visits

The exact answer to the question of how long you should use Damon braces actually depends on many factors. On average, it takes from one to three years to correct the dentition. The timing of treatment is influenced by age criteria, characteristics of bone tissue, the severity of pathological processes, anamnesis and the specific clinical situation. In adolescence, restoration of correct occlusion is faster due to the fact that the dental system is not yet fully formed. The movement of teeth under the influence of braces occurs more easily than in adult patients.

The schedule of visits to the dental clinic is compiled on an individual basis. During scheduled visits, the orthodontist evaluates the dynamics of treatment, the general condition of the patient and the appearance of the system. If necessary, he can carry out professional cleaning and sanitation of the oral cavity. After installing Damon braces, the frequency of inspections is once every one and a half to two months.

Please note that consolidating the final result may require additional time. After removing the brace system, the so-called retention period begins, during which retainers perform the function of a corrective device.

This design has a supportive therapeutic effect and prevents teeth from moving in the wrong direction. The duration of the rehabilitation stage is individual for each patient. In most cases, dentists recommend wearing retainers twice as long as braces.

What is more expensive - braces or aligners?

In some individual cases, expensive branded aligners may be more expensive than cheap braces, especially with long-term treatment involving many stages. But if the comparison is made correctly, comparing cases of the same degree of complexity, then the difference in the price of braces or aligners will either be minimal, or even aligners will be more profitable.

Imported mouthguards from foreign manufacturers are more expensive. Our clinic cooperates with Star Smile, a leading domestic manufacturer of aligners, which, with completely similar quality, have a much lower price. This allows us to offer treatment for malocclusion using aligners at the most affordable prices.

Therefore, to the question: what to choose: braces or aligners? – our doctors answer unequivocally – choose aligners. This will provide greater comfort during treatment, better aesthetics and will be much more profitable.

Recommendations for caring for Damon systems

For high-quality oral hygiene, you need to purchase several additional accessories, since a regular toothbrush will not be able to cope with hard-to-reach places. Considering that it is advisable to brush your teeth after every meal, you should make a choice in favor of proven care products.

After installing braces, it is necessary to take into account that hygiene procedures will now require more time. Open areas can be easily cleaned of food debris with a toothbrush. As for the orthodontic system, special brushes, dental floss and irrigators are used to care for it.

Brushes are intended for cleaning structural elements and areas that a toothbrush cannot get to. The movable head of the brush allows you to change the angle of inclination and thoroughly clean the areas of greatest accumulation of food debris. Dental floss is used to treat the interdental space and the area located directly under the arch.

The best option is an irrigator. The operating principle of this device is to target the source of pollution with a water jet. The irrigator helps to cope with stuck pieces of food and dental plaque, prevents the proliferation of microbes in the oral cavity and prevents many dental diseases.

For more gentle cleansing, it is necessary to select pastes without adhesive effects. They do not cause damage to structures and are characterized by increased foaming. If hygiene procedures are not possible, you can use a rinse aid. It is used as a prophylactic and prevents the proliferation of microbes in the oral cavity.

What braces are called transparent?

Transparent dental braces include ceramic and sapphire systems. They are the least noticeable on the teeth, but, of course, they cannot be called completely invisible. The design elements will still be noticeable.

In addition to the aesthetic component, when choosing a method for correcting malocclusion and straightening teeth, many other characteristics should be taken into account: is it difficult to install transparent braces, are they comfortable to wear, what are the pros and cons. Orthodontic treatment is quite long, so it should be as comfortable as possible for the patient.

Principles of proper nutrition while wearing Damon braces

Despite the fact that metal structures are designed to withstand a certain load, braces must be handled with care and precision. You can achieve optimal results by following the rules of use outlined by your doctor.

In order for the systems to work with maximum efficiency, experts recommend excluding from the diet:

• products with a high content of food dyes;
• carbonated drinks;
• solid foods (nuts, crackers, raw vegetables);
• products with a sticky or viscous consistency.

You need to chew food slowly, in small portions, evenly distributing the load between the molars. To reduce discomfort, the front teeth should participate as little as possible in the chewing process. It is also very important to observe the temperature regime and not experiment with cold or hot drinks. A sharp temperature change negatively affects the wear resistance of the structure.

While wearing braces, it is advisable to refrain from drinking alcohol and smoking. As you know, nicotine changes the color of tooth enamel, and alcohol dries out the mucous membranes. The oral cavity becomes more sensitive to the effects of braces. This creates a risk of tissue injury.

Aligners - the most transparent orthodontic system

Both ceramic and sapphire braces can only be called transparent. Of course, if you compare them with a metal system, the aesthetics will be much higher. But only Invisalign aligners are truly transparent; they are practically invisible to others even at close range. This is a set of completely transparent removable trays, which the patient independently changes every two weeks.

At the PROPRICUS clinic, experienced orthodontists Natalya Sergeevna Ivanova and Elena Sergeevna Mironova install aligners. They always receive rave reviews from patients. All our specialists were trained by the number 1 doctor in the Invisalign rating - Nana Gezalova. We are the only clinic in Moscow that successfully treats with aligners all bite pathologies that braces can handle.