Damon Q (Metal)
Damon Q metal braces are made of stainless steel brackets which are stuck onto the front of your teeth.
Self-Ligating Braces
Improve your smile and confidence in 12 - 24 months
What Are Self-Ligating Braces?
Self-ligating braces are a type of braces that consist of two items – brackets and wire.
Modules (small rubber bands used to secure archwire to the brackets) present in traditional braces are not required in self-ligating braces as the self-ligating brackets have “sliding doors”.
These doors can open and close, allowing the arch wire to be kept in position with minimal tension. As such, previous problems associated with modules (e.g friction) are eliminated.
Additionally, treatment time is slightly faster and less painful as compared to the traditional braces. In most cases, you only need to visit the dentists every 4 – 8 weeks.
Types of Self-Ligating Braces
There are several types of self-ligating braces available in the market. Some of the most notable ones include:
Damon Braces
The most recognized brand of self-ligating braces, the Damon System offers both clear and metal self-ligating braces, known for their slide mechanism that reduces friction and improves patient comfort.
Damon Clear (Ceramic)
Damon Clear ceramic braces are made up of tooth-coloured brackets. They are suitable for those who prefer a more discreet and aesthetically pleasing option.
TOMY Braces
TOMY offers a range of self-ligating braces, including:
- Mini Clippy which have smaller brackets than traditional braces, leading to a more aesthetic appearance
- Clippy C which feature a clear, ceramic construction for improved aesthetics
SmartClip Braces
Manufactured by 3M, SmartClip Braces uses a unique clip mechanism to offer more controlled tooth movement.
Benefits of Self-Ligating Braces
Reduced pain and discomfort
Instead of using modules to keep the wires in place, self-ligating braces uses a bracket with a ‘’sliding door’’ mechanism to support the wires and move the teeth.
Consequently, self-ligating braces typically cause less friction than traditional braces, significantly decreasing discomfort.
Fewer follow-up appointments
Without the use of modules, patients on self-ligating braces require fewer visits to the dentist; they are only required to come back for a review every 4 – 8 weeks instead of the usual 4 weeks for traditional braces.
More hygienic
The modules used in conventional braces trap food particles easily, making it difficult for you to clean them.
With self-ligating braces, there are no rubber bands, making it more hygienic.
Established technology
Self-ligating braces use a clinically proven approach to straighten your teeth and treat your malocclusions.
It uses a memory system which applies gradual pressure to shift your teeth. This approach is much more gentle compared to manual adjustments.
What Dental Problems Can Braces Fix?
Overbite
Overbite is a dental condition where your upper front teeth cover your lower front teeth.
While it is common to have a mild overbite, it is recommended to seek treatment if you have a severe overbite.
Underbite
An underbite occurs when
your lower jaw extends beyond your upper jaw.Patients with this dental condition may experience difficulties in chewing and eating effectively, as well as potential speech impairments.
Spacing
Spacing refers to a dental condition where you have extra space between your teeth.
Food particles often become trapped within these tiny crevices, leading to easy accumulation of plaque.
This not only affects the appearance of your smile but also contributes to oral health issues.
Overcrowding
Overcrowding occurs when there is not enough space in your jaw for your teeth to grow normally.
Crowded teeth can be hard to clean, making it easier for plaque and bacteria to build up. This increases the risk of gum diseases and decay.
Open bite
Open bite refers to the condition where your upper and lower teeth do not touch when your mouth is closed.
Patients with an open bite may experience problems with eating or speaking.
Crossbite
A crossbite is a dental condition characterised by the upper teeth resting behind the lower teeth.
This misalignment can lead to difficulties in speaking, increased risk of tooth decay, and a deviation in jaw alignment.
Top Concerns About Getting Self-Ligating Braces
As one of the first dental clinics to provide self-ligating braces (including Damon braces) since 1992, we’ve engaged countless patients, hearing first hand about their worries and questions as they embark on their braces treatment. Here are the common concerns our patients often express:
Are self-ligating braces painful?
Patients experience reduced pain as self-ligating braces exert less pain on the teeth. Self-ligating braces also feature a low profile design and smoother edges due to the use of high-quality stainless steel and meticulous manufacturing techniques. This contributes to a more comfortable orthodontic experience.
Why should I get Damon braces?
Damon braces are one of the pioneers in self-ligating braces which have undergone extensive research and development. This has led to enhancements in comfort, product design, treatment efficiency and protocol development.
What is the estimated treatment duration when using self-ligating braces?
In general, your teeth will move at a quicker pace with self-ligating braces, potentially leading to a shorter overall treatment period compared to other options.
Are self-ligating braces more expensive?
While it may be slightly more expensive, the benefits of enhanced comfort and shorter treatment duration make it a worthwhile investment.
Why Get Self-Ligating Braces at i.Dental?
Experienced dentists
Since our inception in 1989, we accumulated over 30 years of experience working with many patients. This has provided us with the experience and knowledge needed to help you achieve a healthier, fuller smile.
Convenience
i.Dental has 4 dental clinics that are located across the island. Our outlets are conveniently located in Tanjong Pagar, Yishun, and Ubi, allowing you to access them easily.
One of the earliest adopters of self-ligating braces (including Damon braces) in Singapore since 1992
Our founder Dr. Cheng has been at the forefront of integrating Damon braces into our comprehensive range of orthodontic solutions.
Our extensive experience enables us to handle a broad spectrum of orthodontic cases, from the simplest to the most complex.
What is the Difference Between Self-Ligating Braces and Traditional Braces?
| Damon self-ligating braces | Self-ligating braces (other brands) | Traditional braces | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Technology | Uses brackets with "sliding door" mechanism and wires to straighten your teeth. | Utilise sliding mechanisms or dedicated clips instead of elastics to facilitate the alignment of teeth by guiding the archwire into position. | Uses wires, brackets, and modules to straighten your teeth. |
| Comfort | More comfortable due to reduced friction and pressure needed to move the teeth. | Adopt a combination of sliding and clip motions to gently move your teeth while avoiding exerting excessive pressure on them. | More uncomfortable due to the larger amount of pressure used to move the teeth. |
| Look | Users do not get to customise the look of their braces since colour modules are usually not used. Modules may be used for “decorative purposes”. | Resembling conventional braces, this innovative design incorporates both sliding doors and clips, each equipped with a spring-loaded mechanism. | Traditional braces offer colour modules that can be effortlessly adjusted, allowing users to customise the colours of their braces according to their preferences. However, it is advisable to discard these colour modules within a week or two, as they may become discoloured or stained over time. Additionally, it is worth noting that they can be susceptible to staining depending on your diet. |
| Maintenance | The brackets are less prone to plaque and food build-up as no modules are used, making cleaning and maintenance easier. | The brackets are less prone to plaque and food build-up as no modules are used, making cleaning and maintenance easier. | Traditional braces are harder to maintain as food gets trapped between the modules easily. It also requires proper brushing and flossing technique to keep them clean. |
| Frequency of dental visits | Once every 4 - 8 weeks | Once every 4 - 8 weeks | Once every 4 - 6 weeks |
| Treatment duration | 12 - 24 months, depending on the complexity of the patient’s case. | 12 - 24 months, depending on the complexity of the patient’s case. | 18 - 36 months, depending on the complexity of the patient’s case. |
| Cost | $5,778 - $6,426 (Damon Q) | $5,508 - $6,156 (Self-ligating metal braces) $6,048 - $6,696 (Self-ligating ceramic braces) | $3,996 to $4,752 (Traditional Metal Braces) $4968 to $5616 (Conventional Ceramic Braces) |
Braces Treatment Process
Step 1: First consultation
During the first consultation, your dentist will need to take records of your teeth in order to evaluate your oral health.
An oral examination, 4 X-ray images, 3D intraoral scans of the teeth using the iTero Element Scanner, and photos of your dental and facial profile will be taken as part of your diagnostics records
Step 2: Second consultation
During your second consultation, your dentist will explain to you the results of your diagnostics records and discuss your treatment plan.
Step 3: Putting on the self-ligating braces
Once the treatment plan has been decided, your dentist will proceed to put the self-ligating braces on your teeth.
Step 4: Follow-up appointments
Once your self-ligating braces have been put on, you will need to visit your dentist once every 4 – 8 weeks.
This allows your dentist to monitor your progress and make sure that your treatment is going smoothly.
Step 5: End of treatment
Once your teeth have been straightened, your braces will be removed and a set of retainers will be issued.
To maintain your new smile, you will need to wear the retainers as per your dentist’s instructions.
At i.Dental, we provide a range of retainers for you to choose from – Hawley Retainers, clear retainers, fixed retainers or Vivera Retainers.
Do speak to your dentist to find out which type of retainer is the most suitable for you.
Price of Self-Ligating Braces in Singapore
Self-Ligating Metal Braces
$5,508 - $6,156
Monthly instalmentVaries depending on the estimated treatment duration
Self-Ligating Ceramic Braces
$6,048 - $6,696
Monthly instalmentVaries depending on the estimated treatment duration
Price of Damon Braces at i.Dental
Damon Q (Metal)
$5,778 - $6,426
Monthly instalmentVaries depending on the estimated treatment duration
FAQs About Self-Ligating Braces
FAQs
Unlike traditional braces which use modules (available in a variety of colours), damon braces use a sliding mechanism to hold the wires. As no elastic ties are required, you typically won’t have the option to customise the colour like you would with traditional braces.
Coloured modules may be placed for decorative purposes but it will add more friction to the system.
One of the key advantages of Damon braces is that it does not require tightening. Instead, the braces gradually adjust themselves as the teeth shift. This eliminates the need for frequent visits to the dentist for manual adjustments and also to reduce pain and soreness of the tightening.
Deciding if self-ligating braces are suitable for you is best determined by a professional dentist. However, here are some general factors to consider such as age, oral health, bite and alignment.
If you are interested in finding out whether you are a suitable candidate for self-ligating braces, schedule an appointment with us today.
You may be required to wear self-ligating braces for 12 – 24 months depending on the complexity of your case. Book a consultation with our experienced team of dentists for a personalised treatment plan.
You may experience some soreness and discomfort at the start of treatment which may last for a few days. To ease the pain, you can take some painkillers or apply dental wax to prevent your braces from rubbing against your mouth.
Alternatively, you may also choose to stick to a soft food diet and avoid hard, crunchy foods that may cause pain while chewing.