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Low Friction Braces in London

Damon Clear low friction braces use slide mechanisms to straighten teeth without the discomfort of tightening common in traditional braces. The system’s memory-shaped wires reduce friction, allowing for fast and comfortable teeth alignment, even in complex cases.

Additionally, Damon Clear has been clinically proven to improve facial aesthetics by widening the smile. These tie-less braces are also stain-resistant, unlike ceramic braces, and can often avoid the need for extractions or surgery due to their efficient orthodontic technology. Experience a comfortable and effective teeth-straightening solution with Damon Clear.


Written by: Dr Sanjana Sudarshan

Sanjana, an accomplished Orthodontist, graduated with Honours from King’s College and excels in providing tailored treatments using diverse techniques. With a broad dental background, she manages complex conditions holistically. A passionate mentor, conference presenter, and charitable ambassador, she continuously supports the dental community.

Clinically reviewed by: Prof Dr Christian Mehl

Treatment Duration

6 months – 2 years

Price

From £5,995

Combined Team Experience

50+ years

Recovery Time

1 day

Our Google Rating

★★★★★ (4.9)

Who is suitable low friction braces?

Low friction braces, also known as self-ligating braces, are an innovative type of braces that are designed to move the teeth with less friction and force than traditional braces. They achieve this through a special mechanism that holds the archwire in place, reducing the amount of pressure exerted on the teeth.

These braces can be a suitable option for a wide range of individuals, including children, teenagers, and adults. They can effectively treat various orthodontic issues, such as overcrowded teeth, gaps, misalignments, and bite problems.

However, some factors can influence their suitability. People with complex or severe orthodontic issues might not be ideal candidates for low friction braces, as these cases may require more precise control over tooth movement than these braces can provide. Additionally, while self-ligating braces can make the orthodontic process more comfortable and potentially quicker, they may be more expensive than traditional braces, which can also factor into a person’s decision. However, it’s important to consult with our orthodontist, Dr Sudarshan, to determine if low-friction braces are the best treatment option for your specific needs.

Our Reviews

Excellent
Based on 93 reviews
Natalia Sassoon
Natalia Sassoon
2023-06-10
Great service and care with Dr Shravan. Highly recommend his service and the clinic for all their help. Thank you!
Bianca Skinner
Bianca Skinner
2023-06-05
Excellent practice! Such a lovely practice. I have been a client of Raul Costa's for many years. He is incredibly professional, experienced and I trust him completely.
Alex Popa
Alex Popa
2023-05-24
Hi, I have been recommended to Wimpole Street Dental Clinic. Booked an appointment for check up. My Dentist was Dr. Raul Costa. During the check up, some issues were discovered. Everything was explained into detail, and with the beat solution's. On the spot Dr. Raul Costa has dealt with the minor issues, which it was really great and helpful. For my next appointment, we had to work for at least 1 and a half hour. To be honest I am not really good in sitting for so long in a dentist chiar, and doing all sorts of procedures. But Dr. Raul Costa made it look, and feel very easy taking and comfortable. To be honest at one point I did fell asleep, which this never happened to me, during dental practice to my body. I am more than happy with the results, and also with the type of quality materials used. I have already recommended the clinic and Dr. Raul Costa to a few friends and family, which they already been there, and they are very happy. Can highly recommend Wimpole Street Dental Clinic, Dr. Raul Costa and all their professional stuff. Alex
Verity Wilkinson
Verity Wilkinson
2023-05-10
I can’t recommend the clinic enough! I am a nervous person when it comes to dentistry but was made to feel immediately at ease by all the staff. Christian and his team are incredible!
Alexander Higgs
Alexander Higgs
2023-02-22
Expertise shown by Dr S Chawla was excellent, calmed any nerves I had and let me know everything that was going to happen before doing anything. Gave a detailed plan and was able to answer any question I had for him. Unfortunately 2 Bitewing X-rays did not load so was exposed to unnecessary radiation. Hope they correct this Fault for future patients.
Mehmet Ali
Mehmet Ali
2023-02-21
I’ve had fixed implants( top and bottom) at this clinic . I could not be happier with the result. Dr Dejan Dragisic preformed the procedure and I can not recommend him highly enough . The whole team at this clinic are very professional, helpful and friendly . Dr Dejan Dragisic explained the whole procedure and put my mind at rest the whole whole time I was in the chair . I had very little pain afterwards . Worth every penny .
lailaa carr
lailaa carr
2023-02-09
Excellence. I can't say this enough. Just Excellence, from the moment I walked in to when I left. I was very nervous after bad experiences over many, many years with other dental practices, resulting in me not going to a dentist. The receptionists were very kind and understanding, making me feel at ease. Prof Dr Christian Mehl was extremely patient, respectful, attentive, and assuring, and he explained everything to me. My treatment was smooth and flawless, with absolutely no pain. He is, without a doubt, a true professional. I have my faith restored, but most of all, I have finally, finally found a dental clinic and a dentist I can trust. I can't thank everyone enough. I don’t normally write or trust reviews. If you are reading this, then I assure you, you can trust this one.
Bernhard Raschke
Bernhard Raschke
2023-01-17
Brilliant team (receptionists, dentists, nurses), brilliant patient experience and top quality work. Real professionals with a big heart!
Donna Williams
Donna Williams
2023-01-15
6 star service and care! What a fabulous experience- worth every £. Exceptional dentistry from surgeon Dr A El-Awa , top tech used to ensure my 2nd molar was extracted in the most efficient, comfortable ( pain free) and caring, personal manner. Unbelievably well treated by all staff, front desk to Dr’s assistants Alice and Anna. Simply beyond expectations. Thank you ! Don’t hesitate to book this top class, clean and professional clinic. Off the charts, excellent. Actually looking forward to the follow up treatment programme for the rest of my mouth!! And I came up from Brighton to Central London for this. Well done. Best £££’s worth in a very long time!

Low friction braces straighten teeth via slide mechanisms that eliminate the need for uncomfortable tightening as necessary in conventional brace treatments.

Why is Wimpole Street Dental Clinic best for low friction braces in London?

  • At Wimpole Street Dental Clinic, Dr Sudarshan is a skilled Orthodontist with a focus on perfecting teeth alignment. Her gentle and precise approach to tailored orthodontic treatments aims to create barely noticeable solutions for her patients. With a commitment to ensuring patient comfort and confidence throughout their treatment, Dr Sudarshan is an expert in providing personalized orthodontic care.
  • With her expertise and dedication to staying up-to-date with the latest advancements in orthodontic care, patients can trust they are in good hands with Dr Sudarshan.
  • At our dental clinic in London, we pride ourselves on having the latest and most innovative orthodontic technology and techniques available. This allows us to provide our patients with effective, reliable, and swift results.

Meet our dentists who are experts in Low Friction Braces…

  • We have over 75+ years of combined dentistry experience across our specialist team.
  • 10,000+ treatments performed and counting.
  • We are leaders in the dental industry – we regularly teach, lecture and publish our research work internationally.

Our latest work

What should I know about low friction braces?

Discreet

Low friction braces are barely visible and ideal for patients who want the most discreet form of braces.

Non-removable

The Damon Clear low friction brace system is a fixed treatment which means that you cannot remove it.

Diamond wires

Our low friction braces used diamond wires which provide greater concealment and discretion for the wearer.

Frequently asked questions

What are low friction braces?

Low friction braces are a type of orthodontic treatment that uses a slide mechanism to move teeth into their desired position. The wires used in this treatment are made of a unique memory-shape material, which reduces friction and allows teeth to move more efficiently.

How do low friction braces differ from traditional braces?

Low friction braces, often known as self-ligating braces, have a unique design that differentiates them from traditional braces. Traditional braces use elastics or metal ties to hold the archwire in place, and this can create friction and require more force to move the teeth. In contrast, low friction braces employ a special sliding mechanism or clip to hold the archwire. This design permits the wire to move more freely, reducing the amount of friction and pressure exerted on the teeth.

Moreover, the frequency of adjustments differs between these two types of braces. Traditional braces need regular tightening and adjustments, typically every 4-6 weeks, which can lead to some discomfort for the patient. In contrast, the design of low-friction braces allows for more natural movement of the teeth, which often means fewer office visits and potentially less discomfort during the treatment process.

Another key difference pertains to oral hygiene. The absence of ties or bands in self-ligating braces makes them easier to clean as there are fewer places for food and plaque to accumulate. In contrast, traditional braces, with their rubber bands and brackets, can trap food particles more easily, requiring more meticulous oral hygiene.

Are low friction braces visible?

Low friction braces, such as Damon Clear, are designed to be nearly invisible. The brackets used in this treatment are made of clear material, which blends in with the color of teeth, making them much less noticeable than traditional braces.

Are low friction braces more expensive than traditional braces?

In general, low friction braces, or self-ligating braces, may be more expensive than traditional braces. However, the cost can vary depending on various factors such as the orthodontist’s fees, the region or country where the treatment is being provided, and any additional services or materials included.

The higher cost of low friction braces can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the design and materials used in self-ligating braces may be more advanced and technologically sophisticated, which can contribute to higher manufacturing costs. Secondly, the expertise and training required to provide self-ligating braces can be specialized, potentially resulting in higher fees for orthodontic professionals.

Additionally, the potential benefits associated with low friction braces, such as reduced treatment time, fewer adjustments, and improved comfort, can also contribute to the higher cost compared to traditional braces.

How long does treatment with low friction braces take?

The duration of treatment with low friction braces, or self-ligating braces, can vary depending on several factors, including the complexity of the orthodontic issues, the age of the patient, and the specific treatment goals.

In general, treatment times with low friction braces are comparable to those of traditional braces. On average, orthodontic treatment with braces can take anywhere from several months to a few years.

It’s important to note that self-ligating braces may offer certain advantages that can potentially lead to shorter treatment times. The reduced friction and more efficient tooth movement associated with low friction braces can contribute to faster progress in some cases. However, the overall treatment duration will still depend on individual factors and the specific orthodontic needs of each patient.

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Who are Damon braces?

The Damon System, developed by Dr. Dwight Damon, has a history rooted in the field of orthodontics. Dr. Damon, an orthodontist based in the United States, introduced the Damon braces and the associated treatment philosophy to the orthodontic community.

The development of the Damon System began in the late 1990s as Dr. Damon sought to address some of the limitations and challenges associated with traditional orthodontic treatments. His goal was to create a more efficient and patient-friendly approach to straightening teeth and correcting malocclusion.

The Damon System gained recognition and popularity in the early 2000s when Dr. Damon introduced his self-ligating braces, which utilized a unique sliding mechanism or clip to hold the archwire in place. This innovative design reduced friction and allowed for more comfortable tooth movement.

The system’s passive self-ligation design, combined with the use of high-technology archwires and low-friction brackets, aimed to minimize the need for frequent adjustments and improve the overall treatment experience. The Damon System also focused on achieving broader smiles and a more harmonious facial balance, considering the overall aesthetics and function of the face.

Related Treatments

Corrective Braces

In cases where children have an uneven bite, early intervention with a corrective removable brace is recommended. Jaw training appliances…

Ceramic Braces

Similar to traditional metal braces, ceramic braces function to adjust the alignment of teeth. However, they offer a more visually…

Low Friction Braces

Damon Clear low friction braces use slide mechanisms to straighten teeth without the discomfort of tightening common in traditional braces…

Lingual Braces

Lingual braces are a type of orthodontic braces that are attached to the back of the teeth, facing the tongue,…

When did we last update this page?

Our expert team continually update and research the latest news and techniques in dentistry, as such we regularly update our pages and have these clinically reviewed.

Current Version

July 21st 2023

  • Added “when did we last update this page” and author biography to the page.

Written by: Prof Dr Christian Mehl

Medically reviewed by: Dr Raul Costa

Previous Versions

October 2nd 2022

  • Page redesigned and updated to reflect change in address.

Written by: Prof Dr Christian Mehl

Medically reviewed by: Dr Raul Costa

30th August 2021

  • Original content created.

Written by: Prof Dr Christian Mehl

Medically reviewed by: Dr Raul Costa

Wimpole St Dental Clinic has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

  • Ellouze S. Mini-implants: bousculer les limites de l’orthodontie traditionnelle [Mini-implants: pushing the limits of traditional orthodontics]. Orthod Fr. 2008 Mar;79(1):59-66. French. doi: 10.1051/orthodfr:2008001. Epub 2008 Mar 27. PMID: 18364218.