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Smile Ranch

Damon Braces

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Humans have been fascinated with beautiful, healthy teeth since the dawn of time, but orthodontics took a great leap forward in 1819. That was the year that Christophe François Delabarre introduced the predecessor to modern braces known as the “wire crib.” (Aren’t you glad you weren’t trying to straighten your teeth in 1819?)

Today, we are far beyond wire cribs, and the science just continues to get better. Most people assume there are just two main options for teeth straightening: braces or aligners such as Invisalign. But there are other options, including Damon braces. These comfortable and effective braces have become a favorite, especially among adult patients.

What are Damon Braces?

Named after the braces’ creator, the innovative Dr. Dwight Damon, these braces are unique in that they are self-ligating. What this means is that Damon braces use a sliding mechanism, which allows the archwire to move with ease and without the need for those pesky rubber bands. 

While traditional braces require regular, dramatic, and often painful tightening, Damon braces tighten constantly, little by little, allowing teeth to move gradually but efficiently.

what are damon braces

Key Features of Damon Braces:

  1. Self-Ligating Innovation
    Ligatures are the tiny rubber bands or wires you see in traditional braces that hold the wires and brackets together. They must be adjusted and replaced by an orthodontist frequently, which can be quite a painful experience. However, the self-ligating mechanism in Damon braces allows for a constant yet gradual movement, reducing the pain and discomfort of ligature tightening.

  2. Gentle Tightening
    The unique design of the Damon System allows force to be applied gently over time, persuading teeth into their proper place little by little. This eliminates the need for painful tightening sessions, contributing to a more comfortable experience than traditional braces can afford.

  3. Shorter Treatment Time
    While you may assume that the gradual tightening of Damon braces leads to a longer treatment plan, the reality is often the opposite. Damon braces frequently deliver faster results than traditional braces, thanks to their self-ligating system.

  4. Easy At-home Care
    Traditional braces can make proper hygiene and maintenance difficult, especially for younger wearers. Copious amounts of bands and wiring make cleaning quite a hassle, even with those handy-dandy little brushes. Because Damon braces are ligature-free and boast a simpler design, brushing and cleaning can be a much easier and less time-consuming process.

  5. Next-level Aesthetics
    The simple design of Damon braces allows them to be a little less eye-catching than a mouth full of wires and bands. Damon braces are also available in clear and tooth-colored material options, which makes them even more discreet. Adults and teens who feel insecure about wearing braces love the ability to camouflage their teeth-straightening system.

Frequently Asked Questions About Damon Braces:

The possibility of a shorter road to a straighter set of pearly whites is one of the biggest reasons so many of our patients choose the Damon System. Teens and adults don’t want to spend several years with a mouth full of metal in order to reach their dream smile.

But just how many months are we talking about? The answer can vary widely and is based on the individual’s unique needs. In order for an orthodontist to give an estimated time frame, they must take into account the following considerations:

  1. Complexity of the Patient’s Case
    Your orthodontist will conduct an in-depth evaluation of your mouth to determine your unique needs. More severe or complex cases are likely to require a lengthier treatment plan.

  2. End-result Goals
    During your consultation, you and your orthodontist will discuss the goals you hope to achieve during your braces journey. While some patients want simple cosmetic adjustments, others might require multiple and more complex corrections to address specific health and function-related issues.

  3. Growth Patterns and Age
    Different patients will find themselves at different stages of dental development based on their age and the mouth’s growth patterns. Because they are still developing, younger patients have softer, more pliable jaws, which can allow for faster treatment. For adults whose teeth are set in their ways, the process is likely to take a bit longer.

  4. Adherence to Recommended Treatment Plan
    In order for treatment to be as fast and effective as possible, patients must follow their orthodontist’s instructions to a T. Plans will often include regular appointments, oral hygiene practices, and avoiding certain foods.

Average Timeline for Damon Braces:
Because each patient’s case is unique, it’s difficult to provide an accurate time estimate prior to an in-depth consultation. However, treatment duration for the Damon System typically falls between 18 and 24 months, with some patients achieving desired results in as little as 12 months and highly complex cases requiring more than two years.

It’s no secret that orthodontic treatments and procedures are an investment. For many patients, cost can be a huge deciding factor in choosing the treatment that is right for them. Several factors can contribute to the final price tag, including:

  1. Type of Braces
    While the idea of Damon braces might seem far more simple in nature when compared to the complexity of traditional braces, the materials and technology used to complete the Damon look are anything but simple. Innovative design, advanced technology, and high-quality materials, along with the high demand for faster and more comfortable treatment, make Damon braces a premium option. So, they’ll typically cost a bit more than their traditional counterparts.

  2. Complexity and Duration of Treatment
    Just as the complexity of each patient’s case will determine the duration of the treatment, so will the duration of the treatment play a large role in the final cost. While simple cases requiring only cosmetic fixes will require a shorter plan, more complex cases will require more time to correct, which could lead to an increase in price.

    Individuals requiring longer and more involved treatments are likely to accrue additional costs due to the number of appointments and added materials needed to complete the process. Your orthodontist can help you compare and contrast the estimated time and costs for each option, helping you make the right investment.

  3. Insurance Coverage
    If the costs of braces are causing you to lose sleep at night, you may be in luck. Most dental insurances cover some portion of the cost of Damon braces, so be sure to chat with your insurance provider and orthodontist to get a clearer picture of your coverage and possible out-of-pocket costs.

Many of our patients looking for Damon braces in the greater Salt Lake City area come with issues that are more than just cosmetic. Fortunately, Damon braces can correct a variety of orthodontic problems, including:

  • Gaps
  • Crowding
  • Overbite
  • Underbite
  • Open Bite
  • Crossbite
  • Misalignment
  • Speech Issues

With so many options available these days, finding the right path to straighter teeth can be daunting. At the end of the day, patients considering Damon braces want to feel complete confidence that they’ve found the perfect fit. If you’re weighing your options, there are a few things you should consider:

  1. Orthodontic Concerns and Goals
    Before consulting with an orthodontist, it’s important to have a basic idea of the concerns you’d like to address and the goals you hope to meet, whether you simply want gaps closed or are looking at serious alignment issues.

  2. Comfort
    Forcing your teeth into perfect order can be a painful undertaking. If you’re dreading the routine tightening of traditional braces, the Damon System might be for you. Its self-ligating technology is known to be far less painful and uncomfortable than other options, making it a leading choice among patients.

  3. Treatment Length
    While younger children may not need to rush the braces process, teens and adults–especially those looking forward to important milestones in the near future–may not want to commit several years of treatment. If you’re looking for an option that can often allow for faster treatment, Damon braces are an excellent choice.

  4. Aesthetic Preference
    While the idea of brightly colored bands may be enticing for younger patients, it’s typically less appealing to adults. For those wanting to maintain a professional look at work or school, the ability to select clear or tooth-colored ceramic hardware and lack of excessive wires and bands make Damon braces a favorable choice.

  5. Lifestyle
    As you consider your treatment options, take a moment to assess your daily routine and lifestyle. Traditional braces will require frequent appointments for adjustments and ligature replacements, which may be difficult to accommodate if you have a busy schedule. Damon braces are an ideal solution for those seeking minimal maintenance and appointments.

  6. Finances
    Consider your insurance coverage and your budget for out-of-pocket costs. Although Damon braces often have a higher up-front cost than the traditional route, case complexity and treatment time may cause costs to fluctuate. Speak with your orthodontist to review and compare all of your options for a better idea of what your final cost may be.

A quick Google search for “Damon braces near me” will likely yield a plethora of results, especially if you are looking for Damon braces in the Salt Lake City, Lehi, or South Jordan areas. Sifting through websites and reviews can be a time-consuming process, but you know that finding the right orthodontist is critical to your oral health and well-being. Through careful research and consultation, you’ll be better able to narrow down the potentials until you find that perfect fit. Keep in mind the following considerations during your hunt for the right orthodontist:

  1. Credentials
    Although it might seem like a no-brainer, it’s always a good idea to check out the credentials of potential orthodontists. Practices should be board-certified and have a good amount of combined experience between their staff members.

  2. Damon Braces Specialization
    The art of the Damon System is a craft all its own. Make sure your orthodontist of choice has expertise and experience in Damon self-ligating braces.

  3. Patient Reviews
    Check out patient testimonials featured on the orthodontist’s website, as well as outside reviews on platforms such as Google and Yelp. It’s important to look for reviews specific to Damon self-ligating braces. A healthy number of positive reviews is a great indicator of customer satisfaction and care you can count on.

  4. Initial Consultation
    You may need to schedule consultations with a number of potential orthodontists in order to truly compare and contrast your options. Use this time to express your concerns about your orthodontic care, share your goals, and ask about potential treatment plans. Look for an orthodontist who listens carefully to your needs and concerns and leaves you feeling confident with the level of care they can offer you.

  5. Office Atmosphere
    A visit to the orthodontist can cause many patients to feel nervous. The overall atmosphere of the office and tone set by the office staff should help you feel more at ease. A warm, welcoming environment can go a long way in contributing to a positive overall experience, and helpful, knowledgeable staff is key to guiding your treatment process.

  6. Location
    While most of us probably wouldn’t mind traveling a few extra miles for a professional experience, it is important to consider the practice’s location before deciding on an orthodontist. You’ll need to attend regular check-ups to keep your treatment plan on track, so make sure you feel comfortable and confident in the office’s proximity to your home and work.

If you’ve been searching for Damon self-ligating braces in the Salt Lake City, Lehi, or South Jordan areas, our Smile Ranch Orthodontics team can offer a depth of experience and competency. We have been creating beautiful smiles since the 1980s and were early adopters of Damon System braces. Our patients have raved about the convenience and stunning results of these braces. Schedule an appointment today, and we’ll help you learn more about your options, including Damon braces in clear or tooth-colored materials for the ultimate in comfortable and discreet orthodontic care.

Smile Ranch Orthodontics

Smile Support Staff

With their extensive knowledge and friendly demeanor, our dedicated Orthodontic team ensures that every patient receives personalized attention and support throughout their orthodontic journey, making the path to a perfect smile as comfortable and smooth as possible. You can trust our exceptional orthodontic team to be your smile’s greatest advocates and partners in achieving the results you desire.

Smile Ranch Google Reviews

 
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Stacy Olson

Three out of four kids have had braces through Smile Ranch in Lehi. They have been awesome to work with and have worked around our schedule. Thank you!!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Michelle Williams

We have been using Dr Jensen for a year. It has been a great experience. He is very knowledgeable and takes time to explain to his clients. Great staff and program.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Amelia Miyasaki

We love Smile Ranch! Dr. J is fantastic, and the office staff is outstanding! The office is super efficient (three patients in and we’ve never had an unreasonable wait) but we never feel like a number, everyone is so helpful and friendly.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Whitney Rasmussen

Dr. J did my braces a few years ago and I was so amazed with his work. I absolutely love my smile and have received so many compliments on my teeth. I send everyone I know to the smile ranch, including my own kids who have just started braces!! 😁 woo hoo! They also have the best staff and make it so fun. Fresh cookies and rewards for the kids to earn smile bucks that turn into gift cards👍 We love smile ranch!!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Aubrie Haymore

We love Dr. J and all the staff! They are soooo kind and my sons bite has improved and we are so grateful! We love them and I’ll bring all my kids here!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Rachel Gardner

I love Smile Ranch! I took my oldest daughter here over a year ago. Her teeth look great. Im now back with my 10 year old daughter and myself. Dr J is extremely good at what he does and his staff are amazing. The most welcoming, loving and positive energy. My daughter has anxiety and Dr J and his staff have been so great to talk with her and explain what they are doing. They have eased her worries. They stay on schedule, but you never feel they are rushing you out their door. They truly care about you as a person and take pride in a job well done. I wouldn’t go anywhere else.

 
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Emily Chidester

I am on my fourth child having orthodontic treatment from Smile Ranch and couldn’t be happier. Initially I went to three other orthodontics for consults and felt that Dr. Alan Jensen was the only orthodontist with the experienced needed to care for my one of my child’s treatment. We have had traditional braces, expanders, and Invisalign. The care we receive from the doctor and staff each time we visit is wonderful. I know that my children are getting the best smiles thanks to the care at Smile Ranch.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Amy Sackett
This is the best place ever! You are so loved everyone is invested on you. It’s the most personable kind environment. And homemade cookies every visit. What’s not to love about that.
 
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Robyn Green

We love Smile Ranch! We’ve had nothing but positive experiences and everyone there is amazing and friendly. It feels like a second home, so comfortable and welcoming.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Betsy Broadwater

I love this office! Dr. Jensen and staff make it so easy! They’re so kind to my family and they do a great job. They’re super easy to schedule with. They have a fun office atmosphere and I love taking my boys in. They know what they are doing and they do it well. They give us (all of us!) cookies after every appointment, the office is nice and clean and we are going to miss coming in here now that boys are getting braces off! … and most importantly, my boys’ teeth look fabulous!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Julie Johnson

Happy, clean atmosphere with friendly staff. We appreciate the care and attention they give. We have been very impressed with Dr. Jensen and the hygienists and their expertise. We have been very happy with the results so far!

 
 
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