
Combination bracket systems
What are combination braces?
Patients like to have straight and beautiful teeth after orthodontic treatment. Since treatment takes from 1.5 to 2 years, patients want to spend this time not only in comfort, but also so that as few bracket elements as possible are visible on the teeth.
For patients who want the best balance of aesthetics, comfort and speed of treatment, there are combined bracket systems.
How are braces combined?
Often, braces are only combined within one manufacturer's line of braces.
Combination ligature braces
Clear braces are placed on the frontal group of teeth from canine to canine Inspire Ice - some of the best aesthetic braces in the world. Braces of this system adjust to the color of teeth and look very beautiful, other braces are put effective metal braces.
The side teeth bear most of the chewing load, so it is better to install metal braces — they are more difficult to peel off or damage.

Combined self-ligating braces
Metal braces are installed on the lateral teeth from the 4th to the 7th tooth, and transparent ceramic braces are installed on the frontal group (from canine to canine), very aesthetic and without metal fasteners, elastic bands.
Ceramic braces are quite fragile — they can break or break off when chewing solid food. In order not to delay treatment with additional visits to the orthodontist, it is better to put reliable metal braces on the lower and lateral chewing teeth.

Should I put combination braces on both jaws or just the upper jaw?
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For patients who want as little metal to be visible as possible, clear fang-to-fang braces are placed on both jaws and metal braces are placed on the side teeth.
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Most teens can't see their bottom teeth when talking, so either a combination system or metal braces can be placed underneath.
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For people whose lower teeth are visible when speaking (mostly slightly older people), a combined brace system can be placed on both jaws – upper and lower.
Why is it better to combine clear braces on the front and metal braces on the side?
Reliability.
Metal braces rarely have any problems. Transparent braces in the side area (where most chewing occurs) can come off. Therefore, where you need special security and where most chewing takes place, it is better to use strong metal braces. Transparent braces can be fitted at the front (for aesthetic reasons when smiling).
Functionality.
Metal braces work slightly better mechanically than clear braces. With clear braces, it will take a little longer to achieve the ideal position of your teeth, but you will feel more comfortable with "invisible" braces.
Cost.
Combi braces are more affordable. It's really a middle ground in cost between inexpensive metal braces, and discreet but expensive ceramic, sapphire or lingual braces. A good opportunity to save money without sacrificing quality.
What are the pros of Damon combination braces?
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Advantages metal braces
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Advantages ceramic braces
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Ceramic braces can change color with poor hygiene practices
Types of combined brace systems
The advantage of braces manufactured by Ormco is that all of these braces are from a single Damon system, which are available in two material options – ceramic and metal. It is definitely possible to combine them.
Braces from different manufacturers are not recommended to combine with each other, because they are usually braces from different systems with different principles of biomechanics. But the orthodontist must understand what is going on, know what parameters are embedded in each bracket system to mix between them, otherwise the results can be different. Even within the same manufacturer, you have to do it with knowledge and check very carefully. If the orthodontist is working with American Orthodontics systems, he or she can try to combine them, but only within that product line.
Why don't all orthodontists use combination braces?
Because it is more convenient for many orthodontists to work on metal braces, for them it is a more predictable and simple option, less time spent on calculations.
Why don't all patients know that combined braces are inexpensive and beautiful?
Sometimes patients come with prejudices about metal braces. For many, appearance really matters a lot. Then there is a choice: transparent or lingual braces. However, transparent ones are not always suitable for complex treatment, and lingual braces are too expensive for many. In such cases, combined braces will help.
All renowned lecturers in orthodontics, who come to Russia to give lectures say that Damon Clear braces can and should be combined with Damon Q braces. It is just that combined braces definitely require a little more experience, knowledge and training from the doctor
How long has it been since the Konfidencia clinic has had combination braces?
From day one, our orthodontists have been combining braces. Before Damon Clear ceramic braces, we used the aesthetic option of combining Inspire Ice sapphire braces with Orthos metal braces. In 2009, Damon Q braces came out and they were combined with Inspire Ice braces, meaning traditional braces with self-ligating braces. Then, when Damon Clear clear braces came out, they started to be combined with Damon Q.
Can ligature braces and self-ligating braces be combined?
In theory and in some situations they can be combined, but clearly understand the indications and contraindications for this type of combination. The orthodontist needs a very high level of skill, because these braces have different thicknesses and parameters, and there can be difficulties in the treatment process. The orthodontists at Confidentia Clinic have successfully combined traditional self-ligating braces and ligature sapphire braces before the release of Damon Q ceramic braces, thanks to the highest level of professionalism and knowledge about the mechanism of their combination.
What is the advantage of combo braces over clear braces?"
If the patient has his heart set on clear braces, but it is not essential for him to have them from tooth 5 to tooth 5 above and below, then the orthodontist suggests a combo option from canine to canine, and in this case everyone is really happy with the result: it is easier for the orthodontist to achieve correct contacts in the lateral areas, and for the patient to reduce treatment costs.
How to Care for Combination Braces?
While being treated with any brace system, we recommend stricter oral hygiene practices and an expanded arsenal of home hygiene products:
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orthodontic toothbrush and monopuck toothbrush;
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orthodontic dental floss and brushes for interdental spaces;
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toothpaste alternating with remineralizing gel;
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oral irrigator;
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avoid hard foods such as nuts;
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other useful tips and rules can be found in the section for Orthodontic patients.
Where to put combined braces in St. Petersburg?
Having made a decision to start orthodontic treatment, you can choose one of hundreds of dental clinics in St. Petersburg. However, if you are interested in a high-quality result and an international approach to braces installation and treatment - it will be optimal to turn to a specialized orthodontic center. Specially for you leading orthodontist Mikhail Morozov has prepared tips about how to choose your orthodontist. Make an appointment for a consultation now by leaving a request online, or by calling: 8 812 326 12 09
- A detailed treatment plan in 1.5 hours
- Planning according to the concept of accelerated treatment
- Personal curator's help
The best specialists to treat you
How much do combination braces cost?
When choosing a clinic and an orthodontist, patients are not always able to immediately understand what the total amount of orthodontic treatment consists of. Often clinics will only list the price of bracket installation as the cost of treatment, or they will not list the exact number of visits (activations) or offer disguised monthly prices. We also recommend you to be careful with promotions, where the prices are known to sound very low, you may well be the first patient at your doctor, and competent treatment begins first of all with an experienced orthodontist.
Не включает брекет-систему и фиксацию
Не включает брекет-систему и фиксацию.
Не включает брекет-систему и фиксацию
Не включает брекет-систему и фиксацию.