When it comes to orthodontic treatment today, the advancements in technology over the last couple of decades have expanded the options available to you for types of treatment. Two of the most popular options now are Damon braces and Invisalign clear aligners.

Both can give you a beautiful, straight smile. And while both can be very discreet, these two options do have some distinct differences. So, you may be having a hard time deciding between Damon braces versus Invisalign. Ultimately, it will depend on several factors, including what you are looking for from your orthodontic treatment.

In this article, we’ve broken down info on both of them to help you choose between the two confidently. 

Taking a Closer Look at Damon Braces

Damon braces are somewhat similar to traditional braces. But, the Damon System uses revolutionary tieless, self-ligating brackets that don’t use traditional elastics. These braces use an archwire that is attached to the brackets on the teeth by a patented slide mechanism. This allows the appliance to move more naturally with your teeth as they are being realigned. Damon braces work without the high pressure that is produced by traditional braces.

Benefits of Damon Braces:

• The brackets for Damon braces are smaller than traditional brackets and the Damon Clear brackets are virtually invisible, with only the metal archwire being noticeable.
• Because the Damon System moves more naturally, they offer a much more effective and comfortable treatment compared to traditional braces.
• The self-ligating system means that there will be fewer office visits to have the braces adjusted compared to traditional braces.
• Treatment time with Damon braces is usually around 20 months, which is less than traditional braces. (But more than most cases of Invisalign.)
• Damon braces are also known for increasing the arch of the mouth and developing a fuller, more broad smile, which other orthodontic treatments don’t do effectively.
• The Damon System can be used to treat even the most severe orthodontic conditions, including extreme tooth crowding. They can even prevent the need for extractions in many cases.
• Damon braces will usually be cheaper than going with Invisalign for orthodontic treatment.

Drawbacks of Damon Braces:

• Damon Braces, even with the clear brackets, will still have a metal archwire that will be visible.
• Damon braces are non-removable (unless by your orthodontist) and fixed to the teeth, working the full 24 hours a day for the duration of treatment. This can make keeping your teeth clean a little more difficult compared to Invisalign.
• Like traditional braces, there are some food restrictions with Damon braces. Sticky or chewy foods should be avoided since they can pull on the wires or cause a bracket to pop off your tooth.

Breaking Down Invisalign Clear Aligners

Instead of using metal brackets fixed to your teeth, Invisalign works by using a series of customized clear plastic trays, known as aligners, to straighten teeth. The aligners fit directly over your teeth on the dental arch and are specially made to fit your teeth as your treatment progresses. If you are looking for a much more discreet treatment method, Invisalign makes a great choice.

Benefits of Invisalign:

• If your teeth only need mild correction, Invisalign is an extremely effective option.
• Invisalign is the most discreet method of orthodontic treatment with no metal components at all and the aligners are almost invisible when being worn.
• Invisalign clear aligners are removable and can be taken out for a couple of hours a day when eating and brushing/flossing your teeth.
• Treatment with Invisalign very often lasts less than a year. But, of course, this is dependent on each specific case.
• Invisalign is the orthodontic treatment option that offers the least impact on your day-to-day routine.
• With Invisalign, you’ll have fewer in-office appointments compared to Damon braces or traditional braces. Treatment with these aligners will only require an appointment every 6 to 8 weeks, where your orthodontist will check your progress and replace your aligners.
• With Invisalign, you have the freedom to eat whatever you like because you can quickly and easily remove the trays to eat.

Drawbacks of Invisalign:

• Not everyone is a candidate for Invisalign, as it can’t treat severe orthodontic conditions. For example, if realignment of the jaws is needed or there is severe overcrowding of the teeth, braces will usually be needed.
• Invisalign, and other clear aligners, are only effective if they are worn properly. Since they can be removed, it can be tempting to take them out more than you should. They need to be worn all the time, except when eating or brushing/flossing.
• Treatment with Invisalign can be more expensive than the Damon System or traditional braces. 

We Can Help You Determine Which is Best For Your Smile

As you can see, there are some great benefits and some drawbacks for both Damon braces and Invisalign. Many things will/should be taken into account when trying to determine which might be better for you, including the extent of treatment that is needed for tooth crowding or other issues. Also, you should consider which one may fit into your daily lifestyle better.

Hopefully, this article has given you a starting point in determining the differences between Damon braces and Invisalign. But, ultimately, talking to your orthodontist is the best way to know which treatment method is right for you. 

Here at Cook & Gutsche Orthodontics in Springfield, PA, we can help you determine if the Damon System or Invisalign will be the most effective for you and customize a treatment plan specifically for you. 

Want to find out more on Damon braces vs Invisalign for your smile? Contact our office today!