Damon Braces (Self-Ligating)
What are Damon Braces?
Damon braces are a new generation of metal braces which uses passive self-ligating braces. Unlike traditional braces, no elastic or rubber bands or metal ties are used. Instead, self-ligating braces use a ‘sliding door’ technique in which brackets are stuck onto the front of teeth, allowing the arch wire to slide back and forth.
Traditional Brackets
Traditional metal braces use elastics or active clips that “bind” archwires in place. This creates friction and pressure that act like parking brakes and can slow down treatment.
Damon Braces
Damon Braces uses what’s called a “passive” slide mechanism to maintain archwires within the bracket, allowing them to move freely. This reduces friction and binding, so your teeth can move quickly and more comfortably.
Benefits of self-ligating braces
More hygienic than traditional metal braces
Damon braces use a sliding mechanism in their brackets to hold the archwire in place, instead of relying on elastic or metal ties. This approach is designed to support tooth movement with reduced friction. The self-ligating system may also require fewer adjustments and result in shorter treatment durations in some cases.
No Elastic Ties
Damon braces differ from traditional braces in that they use a self-ligating design, which does not require elastic or metal ties. This design may make it easier to clean around the brackets and can reduce the chance of food and plaque accumulation.
Smooth Sliding Mechanism
Damon braces are designed with a self-ligating system that uses a sliding mechanism rather than elastic bands to hold the archwire. This may lead to less contact and irritation with the soft tissues in the mouth, which can contribute to a reduced risk of developing mouth ulcers in some individuals.
Do I Need Damon Braces?
You may be a good candidate for You may be a good candidate for Damon braces if:
Damon braces use a self-ligating design with a sliding mechanism to hold the archwire, instead of elastic or metal ties.
The low-friction system allows the wire to move more freely, which can support more efficient and comfortable alignment.
The design often requires fewer appointments compared to conventional braces.
Without elastic ties, it’s easier to clean around the brackets, helping to minimise food and plaque buildup.
The reduced pressure on soft tissues may lower the likelihood of developing irritation or mouth ulcers.
What Does the Procedure Involve?
The Damon Braces procedure generally follows a structured process.
Stage 1:
Pre-Treatment Consultation
Before the braces are applied, an initial assessment is conducted to determine your suitability for the Damon system.
- A detailed oral examination is performed, often including X-rays and digital scans.
- The orthodontist evaluates tooth alignment, bite issues, and jaw positioning.
- A tailored treatment plan is created, including estimated duration and goals.
- The process, expectations, and cost will be explained, and any questions addressed.
- Impressions or digital moulds may be taken to fabricate custom archwires or guide treatment planning.
Stage 2:
Fixing Procedure of Damon Braces
This stage involves the placement of the Damon Braces on your teeth.
- The teeth are cleaned and dried to prepare for bonding.
- Brackets are attached using dental adhesive and positioned precisely according to the treatment plan.
- The self-ligating archwire is threaded through the brackets using a sliding mechanism—no elastic bands are needed.
- The entire procedure typically takes 1 to 2 hours.
- Instructions on care and expected sensations (such as mild tightness) are provided before you leave.
Stage 3:
Post-Treatment Care
Once the braces are in place, ongoing care and monitoring are advised to ensure progress.
- Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor movement and adjust the archwire if needed.
- Oral hygiene practices are reinforced to prevent plaque build-up around brackets.
- Patients are advised on foods to avoid (e.g., sticky or hard foods) and how to manage initial discomfort.
- Progress is tracked digitally or manually during each review.
- Once treatment is complete, retainers may be prescribed to maintain results.
Damon Clear Braces
Damon braces can be either 1) Metal brackets or 2) Ceramic brackets (Damon Clear brackets).
Damon Clear uses tooth-coloured ceramic brackets with the same self-ligating clip as Damon metal, so the brackets are less noticeable than metal ones. Like all fixed braces, they stay on for the whole course of treatment and are adjusted at regular reviews.
At Neo Smiles, Damon metal braces start from S$6,000 and Damon Clear from S$7,000. Your exact fee is confirmed after an orthodontic assessment.
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Compare your options: all braces types or the braces cost guide (2026).
Frequently Asked Questions
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