Dr. Shaver uses self-ligating bracket systems in her orthodontic practice. Self-ligating simply refers to a bracket design. These types of brackets have "doors" or "gates" that open and close. These doors hold the orthodontic wire into the bracket. These doors allow for very low friction when moving the teeth. Low friction is beneficial because it leads to highly efficient tooth movement with little discomfort.
Dr Shaver and her staff use two types of self-ligating bracket systems, the Damon system from Ormco Corporation and the Empower bracket from American Orthodontics. The Damon bracket and the Empower bracket are made from stainless steel. This allows for greater stability in the bracket performance. They both have a rounded structure which improves patient comfort but maintains overall performance. The Damon brackets are also made in a clear material for greater patient aesthetics. In addition to low-friction, improved comfort, and more efficient movement, Damon and Empower brackets are much easier than traditional brackets to clean/care for. This is due to the lack of tight elastic ligatures placed over traditional brackets. Better oral hygiene is a goal of Dr. Shaver (and your dentist too).
Lastly, the Empower bracket has a unique feature in which it can be 'low-friction' or passive or it can be ' interactive'. This means the orthodontist has control over specific teeth and specific types of movement during orthodontic treatment. Passive treatment usually consists of light wires and low friction. Occasionally, the orthodontist will need a larger wire and more control in order to perform specific types of tooth movement. This is where the 'interactive' capabilities of the Empower bracket come in handy. No other orthodontic system allows the orthodontist to customize treatment like the Empower bracket by American Orthodontics.
Dr. Shaver and her staff have been using self-ligating brackets since 2004 and are quite versed in the specific techniques afforded by self-ligating brackets. Dr. Shaver has been using products made by American Orthodontics since 1995 and Ormco Corporation products since 2004. Dr. Shaver and her staff are proud to use products made in the USA!
For more information, visit damonbraces.com and americanortho.com.