Damon Braces vs. Traditional Braces: Cost, Benefits, and Reviews

Is Damon braces cost a concern when considering orthodontics treatment options? The cost of Damon braces may be essential when deciding on the best choice for your dental needs.

Damon braces are passive self-ligating braces that offer an appealing alternative to conventional or invisible braces for teens and adults. They've gained popularity due to requiring less force and fewer adjustments, potentially resulting in reduced discomfort.

This comprehensive guide will explore Damon braces in detail. We will cover Damon braces cost, functionality, and their comparison with traditional braces and Invisalign. We also provide real Damon braces reviews to help you decide on the best form of orthodontic treatment for your needs.

What are Damon braces?

Damon braces are the answer to everything inconvenient about traditional braces. They are fitted just like traditional braces, but use self-ligating technology to straighten your teeth. 

Self-ligating braces are dental braces that use specialized clips, or little metal doors, which hold the archwires of the braces in place. A sliding mechanism gradually moves teeth to straighten them. This system doesn't require the little rubber bands used in conventional train track braces.

Damon braces are easier to clean, less painful, and require fewer in-office visits.

How much do Damon braces cost?

Damon braces typically cost between $3,800 and $8,000, with the price depending on the severity of your malocclusion and the extent of correction required. 

While they are more expensive than traditional metal braces, private insurance may help cover the treatment costs. It's worth noting that state-funded insurance is less likely to cover this type of braces.

You can also inquire with your orthodontist about available payment plans if your insurance doesn't fully cover Damon braces. 

You might want to explore dental savings plans, which are partnerships between dentists and insurance companies designed to assist those who are uninsured or underinsured in obtaining necessary dental care.

Benefits of Damon braces vs. traditional braces

Damon System braces can effectively treat a range of orthodontic issues, including:

• Crooked teeth
• Overcrowding
• Mild to severe cases of malocclusion

The creators of the Damon braces system and their affiliates also claim that Damon braces will result in:

• A fuller smile
• Better facial balance
• Smoother cheek contours
• A decrease in dark triangles at your mouth corners
• Improved profiles for a more youthful appearance

Damon braces have steadily gained popularity due to their quick treatment time and less noticeable appearance. Here are the key benefits that make it an appealing choice:

• Faster treatment: Studies, such as one conducted by the Bristol Dental Hospital and School in the UK, have found that Damon braces require less time for treatment compared to conventional braces.
• Aesthetics: Damon braces are available in both clear and metal options. The clear brackets are virtually invisible, making them an excellent choice for adults and teens who prefer a discreet appearance.
• Fewer orthodontic office visits: The same Bristol Dental Hospital and School study also discovered that fewer in-office visits were required with Damon braces.
• Less pressure and pain: As self-ligating braces, Damon braces are often less painful, or the pain is more evenly distributed compared to traditional braces, providing less discomfort overall.
• Easier to clean: Since these braces have fewer parts and add-ons than regular braces, there are fewer places for plaque to build up, and they are easier to brush and floss.
• Less friction: The reduced friction associated with Damon braces leads to less teeth and enamel deterioration.

How do Damon braces work?

• Getting your braces begins with a visit to your orthodontist, just like with traditional braces. Your dentist or orthodontist will create a mold of your teeth and plan your treatment accordingly.

• You may want to consider one of the two types of self-ligating brackets based on the wire mechanism:
  • Active self-ligating brackets which use a spring clip that stores energy and presses against the wire as seen in speed brackets.
  • Passive self-ligating brackets like Damon exert no force on the wire and use a slide mechanism to attach wires to the brackets.

• The special memory wire and slide mechanism allow the teeth to move on their own to realign teeth gradually. This eliminates the need for periodic tightening by an orthodontist. And if you've ever had conventional braces, you know that can be quite a painful experience!

• Instead, Damon braces tighten slowly over time, using less force than traditional braces that attach the wire to the bracket system by elastic ties, resulting in more frictional pressure.

• Additionally, Damon braces do not have unsightly elastic bands that may occasionally snap while in place, causing irritating pain.

• The makers of the Damon braces system assert that there is no need for tooth extractions, palatal expanders, or other additional procedures, making the treatment process less worrisome. Despite these advantages, literature has been inconclusive on the efficiency of self-ligating brackets over conventional brackets.

• It is worth noting that self-ligating brackets may result in less treatment time due to reduced friction. However, treatment pain may vary, depending on the level of malocclusion and the treating orthodontist, due to the use of appliances like a power chain, a form of rubber band connecting the brackets to exert more pressure on the teeth.

To learn more, you can watch a video where Daniel shares his experience with Damon braces power chains.

After Damon orthodontic treatment

How long does it take for Damon braces to work?

Damon braces typically take anywhere from 6 to 36 months to achieve the desired results, depending on the complexity of the case and individual factors. 

Usually, Damon braces treatment time system may be shorter compared to conventional braces, potentially reducing the duration by up to 6 months.

What next after Damon braces treatment?

Following your Damon braces treatment, you may need to wear a retainer at night, similar to the protocol for traditional braces. Depending on your specific needs, your dentist or orthodontist may also advise daytime retainer use.

There are various retainer options available, such as Hawley and Essix retainers. If you prefer a less noticeable option, Invisalign offers a clear retainer called the Vivera retainer.

Additionally, your dental professional might recommend a permanent retainer, which you would wear indefinitely. These retainers are affixed behind the teeth and are only visible when your mouth is opened widely.

If you're considering clear, removable Essix retainers, you can obtain custom-made retainers online through Sporting Smiles without visiting a dentist. 

Simply order an impression kit, create your dental impression, and a professional technician will then make your retainers in a specialized lab.

Get your hassle-free, quality and affordable clear Essix retainers for after treatment with Damon, and save 10% on your order with code SMILE10.

Types of Damon style braces

Damon System braces share some similarities with regular braces, including different types:

• Damon metal braces: These resemble traditional metal braces but lack hooks for elastic bands. The self-ligating sliding mechanism is visible only upon close inspection. 
• Damon Clear braces: Made from ceramic, these transparent brackets are less noticeable than traditional clear or white braces. They lack visible metal parts and elastic ties, making them even more discreet. For a more affordable and quicker alternative, consider at-home clear aligners with an average treatment time of six months.
• Damon braces colors: The clear option is attractive to those who want their braces to go unnoticed, but if you are all about making a statement, your dentist can show you a wide selection of Damon braces colors.

Find Damon braces dentist near me

Like traditional braces, Damon braces also require in-person orthodontist supervision. 

If you're considering this treatment, schedule a consultation with an orthodontist who provides Damon braces. 

Find your nearest provider by calling 866-383-0748. You'll be connected with a live operator who can match you with a Damon braces dentist near you.

Damon braces vs. traditional braces

Key differences between Damon braces and traditional braces include:

• Self-ligating brackets: Damon braces use self-ligating brackets, eliminating the need for elastic bands or metal ties, while traditional braces require these components to hold the archwire in place.
• Reduced friction: Damon braces have a sliding mechanism that allows the archwire to move freely, resulting in less friction and potentially less discomfort than regular ones. Find out why braces hurt and how you can relieve the pain.
• Treatment time: Damon braces may slightly reduce treatment time compared to traditional braces due to their self-ligating design.
• Aesthetics: Damon Clear braces offer a more discreet option with transparent brackets, while traditional ceramic braces may still have visible metal parts or elastic ties.
• Cost: Damon braces generally cost more due to their advanced technology, between $3,800 and $8,000, whereas traditional metal braces cost between $2,500 and $7,500.

Damon braces vs Invisalign 

Invisalign are also another favorable option to straighten teeth.

There are several significant differences between Damon braces and Invisalign you should know:

• Visibility: Clear aligners like Invisalign are virtually invisible and even less noticeable than clear brace brackets, making them a more discreet option.
• Removability: Invisalign aligners are removable, allowing for easier cleaning and the possibility to remove them for short periods before eating or brushing, while Damon braces are fixed to the teeth and work 24/7, making cleaning less convenient.
• Cost: The cost for Damon braces and Invisalign can be similar, ranging from $3,800 to $8,000 for Damon braces and $3,500 to $8,500 for Invisalign.

However, at-home clear aligners are a more affordable option, costing under $2,500, as they are remotely monitored and don't require regular dental office visits.

At-home aligners may not be suitable for severe cases of malocclusion but are effective for most mild and moderate cases. 

The choice between Damon braces and Invisalign depends on your preferences, treatment needs, and budget. You can check your eligibility here or explore some of the top brands below for more information.

Damon braces reviews

So, do Damon braces really work? 

To determine if Damon braces are effective, it's helpful to examine patient reviews and experiences. 

Let's have a look at some Damon braces reviews to see what patients have to say:

Nuffnang's Review: Quick results but not comfortable

“I'm a damon braces user and I've been wearing my braces for 1 year and 8 months”

At the time of this review, the patient had been wearing her braces for a year and eight months. Although her satisfaction with the treatment is not explicitly stated, she effectively discusses the advantages and disadvantages of the Damon braces. She touches on some points in her review:

• Speed: The patient notes that the Damon System shows fast progress, with noticeable improvements within the first month of treatment.
• Enhanced smile: She credits her Damon braces for giving her a wider smile than before.
• Prominent gums: She observes that her gums are more noticeable than they were prior to treatment.
• Discomfort: Contrary to claims that Damon braces are more comfortable than traditional braces, the reviewer finds this to be untrue.

Jennifer's Review: Damon Braces work

“It’s never too late to get the smile you’ve always longed for!”

Jennifer's Damon Clear braces review is overwhelmingly positive… perhaps a tad too positive? If it feels that way, there's a reason for that. She is what's called a “Damon Diva”—someone who is compensated for taking time to share her Damon experience. 

Considering her role as a “Damon Diva,” it's important to remember that she has many positive things to say, and her experiences appear authentic. Some of the favorable aspects she highlights include:

• Efficiency: Getting her braces on, including getting impressions, photos and molds of her teeth, took a total of about only an hour and a half. 
• Painless: This isn't a comment about wearing the braces, but rather getting the braces on—she reports an overall pleasant experience in the orthodontist's office.
• Greater confidence: As of the review, Jennifer has only had her braces on for a little more than a month, but she's already noticed a difference. Instead of hiding her smile like before, she now smiles without hesitation.

Chanwon's review: Damon braces and Invisalign

“I'm really satisfied with my result”

This blogger has documented a long and detailed journey as part of her Damon braces review. She wore her braces for two and a half years, mostly for overbite correction. She reports being very happy with her teeth after getting her braces off.

However, her teeth weren't quite as straight as she wanted them to be, so she opted to get Invisalign retainers after her Damon treatment. She did end up having to get teeth extracted, including a wisdom tooth. Her experience includes:

• Extraction of four teeth
• Mini screws in gums
• Laser treatment
• Invisalign treatment for minor corrections

That being said, she seems happy with her overall experience. 

Christopher's review: No teeth extractions

Check out this short video of Christopher's experience with Damon, including his before and after Damon braces photos. 

Damon braces pros and cons

These braces are popular because they are said to be more efficient and less painful than traditional braces. There are, however, some disadvantages as well. Some of the Damon braces disadvantages include:

• Visibility: Although Damon Clear is less noticeable than regular metal braces, there is still a metal wire that other people may be able to see. 
• Irritation: Any system that will be moving the position of your teeth is going to cause some irritability or discomfort to your mouth, at least at the beginning of treatment. 
• Cost: Damon braces cost more than traditional braces. 

Check out this table that sums up the pros and cons of Damon braces: 

Despite the claims that these braces are more efficient and provide faster braces treatment than traditional braces, there are some studies that say this is not the case.

This study, published by the Journal of Dentofacial Anomalies and Orthodontics, finds that self-ligating braces do not decrease the number of tooth extractions needed, nor do they decrease the overall length of treatment. 

Alternatives to Damon braces

Invisible braces

Invisible braces like Invisalign use clear plastic aligners which guide teeth into position over time. They are suitable for up to 90% of teeth-straightening cases. 

You can visit a dentist for brands like Invisalign and ClearCorrect, but a cheaper option – if you only need mild or moderate teeth straightening – is at-home aligners.

Brands like Candid aligners, ALIGNERCO braces, NewSmile, and Byte all cost significantly less than in-office brands. You can complete the whole treatment from home and check in with your dentist or orthodontist online.

Read about the best invisible braces for more details on how these options compare.

Traditional metal braces

Stainless steel brackets attach to every tooth in traditional metal braces. A flexible metal wire connects each bracket, and small elastic bands secure the wire. During in-office visits, an orthodontist tightens the wire to move teeth into the desired position. 

Lingual braces (including Incognito)

Lingual braces, a less noticeable option for straightening teeth and fit behind the teeth, making them invisible from the exterior.

Ceramic braces

Ceramic clear braces utilize brackets with designs that are either transparent or match the color of your teeth. They are less visible than traditional metal braces, but they work in the same way.

Other self-ligating braces

Speed braces

High-speed braces are for those who want to straighten their teeth without committing to the typical one to two-year treatment period of the traditional brace. They deliver results in approximately six months.

High-speed braces are exclusively available for minor corrections in patients with fully developed jaws and teeth. Only dentists licensed by the company can perform this treatment due to its unsuitability for severe malocclusion.

In-Ovation braces

In-Ovation braces, similar to traditional braces, use brackets and wires to straighten teeth. The difference is that they are self-ligating, like the Damon System. In fact, there don't seem to be any glaring differences between these two types of self-ligating braces, but in the interest of not having a monopoly market, it's nice to have options.

In the video below, Molly does a good job explaining why her dentist prefers In-ovation over Damon, while acknowledging that both brands yield good results. 

In fact, the main differents seems to be what your orthodontist prefers. Check out these responses to the question “Damon vs In-Ovation R?” on an orthodontics message board. 

Conclusion

If you're an adult or teen looking for an alternative to traditional metal braces, then you may find that Damon are a good option for you. In fact, there are plenty of Damon braces pros and cons.

Positive testimonials and research suggest that since they are self-ligating, adjustments occur gradually with reduced pain and pressure. The clear option of these braces is a popular choice due to their inconspicuous appearance and potential to avoid tooth extractions.

However, some studies argue that these types of braces don't actually shorten the overall treatment time compared to traditional braces. Furthermore, in this article, you saw a review from a patient who needed multiple teeth extracted during her treatment with Damon.

Ultimately, you'll need to talk to your dentist or orthodontist to figure out the best option for you when it comes not just to straightening your teeth, but to your general oral health. To find a Damon provider near you, call 866-383-0748.

FAQs

What is the difference between Damon vs traditional braces?

The primary difference between Damon braces and traditional braces is their design and adjustment process. Damon braces are self-ligating, featuring a sliding mechanism that connects wires to the brackets. This allows them to adjust automatically while traditional braces utilize elastic bands to shift teeth and require manual tightening, necessitating frequent dental visits. 

Are Damon braces painful?

Damon braces are less painful than traditional braces, according to the manufacturers and some patient reports. However, individuals may still experience ulcers and mouth sores, similar to those with regular braces. Pain levels can vary depending on the severity of the malocclusion. If pain is a concern, Damon braces might be a suitable option.

How much do Damon braces cost?

Damon braces cost between $3,800 and $8,000, a bit more than normal braces. Damon system braces cost more than traditional braces because of the extra service time and necessary orthodontic training. There are cheaper braces available if the Damon braces cost sounds too expensive for you.

How can I find a dentist that specializes in Damon braces near me?

To find a dentist specializing in Damon braces near you, ask your current dentist if they provide the Damon System ahead of your next visit. Otherwise, you can go to the Damon website where they have a Damon dentist finder or call 866-383-0748 to get connected to a nearby orthodontist.

Are there Damon braces colors?

Damon braces offer color options similar to traditional braces, although many people prefer clear braces for a less noticeable appearance. Silver is another option that tends to be less conspicuous, or consider choosing dark colors such as dark blue or purple to make teeth appear whiter.

Are there any advantages of Damon Systems with treatment time or overall performance?

Damon braces offer advantages like reduced treatment time and increased comfort due to their self-ligating design, allowing for gradual and more efficient tooth movement in a shorter period than conventional periods. However, individual experiences may vary.

How do I take care of my teeth while wearing Damon braces?

To care for your teeth while wearing Damon braces, brush at least twice daily with a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, floss daily using a floss threader or orthodontic flosser, rinse with an antimicrobial mouthwash, avoid hard and sticky foods, attend regular dental checkups and orthodontic appointments.

What are the disadvantages of Damon Braces?

Disadvantages of Damon braces may include a higher cost compared to traditional braces, and the potential for limited suitability for cases requiring significant orthodontic correction.

How frequently will I have appointments at the dental office?

The frequency of office visits for Damon braces typically ranges between 8 to 10 weeks at the initial stages, but it can vary based on individual treatment plans and progress. Your orthodontist will provide specific guidance on scheduling appointments.

How long do Damon braces take?

Damon braces typically take anywhere from 6 to 36 months to achieve the desired results, depending on the complexity of the case and individual factors. Usually, Damon braces treatment time system may be shorter compared to conventional braces, potentially reducing the duration by up to 6 months.