Damon system

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The Damon System of orthodontics is a fixed, passive, self-ligating method of correcting malocclusions. It uses brackets that do not require elastic o-rings to hold the wires in place. The system's light wires are as thin as .012 inches and are of increasing size. To hold the wires in place, the Damon System uses small sliding doors. By not using the elastic o-rings, the wires freely slide through the slots without friction, which necessitates new mechanics to use the system to move teeth. The addition of 'stops' on the wires helps prevent the wire from becoming displaced from its intended location.

Orthodontic treatment begins with very light wires .014 inch in size that are made of an alloy of copper, nickel, and titanium (CuNiTi). Successively larger wires are placed as the arches round out and the teeth become level. The next-larger wire is used when it may be passively placed in the brackets. The use of initial light wires and the passive placement of subsequent heavier wires made of stainless steel and/or a TMA alloy reduces the pressure exerted on the periodontial ligaments, which with conventional orthodontic mechanics compromises the blood flow there and triggers pathologic osteoclastic/osteoblastic activity.

With the lighter forces not exceeding the capillary pressure of the periodontium, tooth movement has reportedly been shown to occur more rapidly and more comfortably by many doctors using this system. In addition, initial appointments are spaced 10 weeks apart instead of 4 weeks, as seen with conventional mechanics. This reduces the number of total visits needed to complete treatment.