The team at Oatlands Dental Lounge helped me in my hour of need. An emergency same day appointment when I couldn’t find one elsewhere.Everyone, from reception to Dr Neil Paryani who looked after my treatment were exceptional. So friendly and welcoming.I can’t speak highly enough of the quality of treatment and advice I received during my visit. If it wasn’t for them I would have ended up at A&E such was the level of pain and anguish I was in at that time.Wouldn’t hesitate to recommend.
Just over a year ago I finally plucked up the courage to visit a dentist at Oatlands Dental Lounge (thoroughly researched online) for the first time in over 30 years. I had no choice any more, my upper front tooth had fallen out. My gums had been receding for a few years but, because of my fear, I had kept putting it off.I needn't have worried. Neil immediately put me at ease and over the next few weeks outlined the options for treatment, to be taken at my own pace.I now have full dental implants in my upper mouth as well as a crown and a bridge in my lower mouth. I can honestly say that throughout the treatment I have never experienced any pain - discomfort, swelling and bruising from the extraction of my upper teeth and insertion of implant placements for a couple of days, but never any pain. Dentistry has certainly moved on from when I was a child!!It has been a long process but the result is totally worth it and can smile confidently again. I now enjoy my (less frequent) visits to Neil and all the whole team, the receptionists, hygienist, who are all very efficient, friendly and calming.If you are nervous of the dentist, I would thoroughly recommend this practice.
When our son had a traumatic bicycle accident and the old family dentist let us down really badly after a night in A&E, Neil and his staff were simply amazing. This caring, happy, approachable team rapidly organised emergency treatment and set out a plan of action which produced results we barely dared hope were possible. To say they worked a minor miracle is no small understatement (thank you to you all).From the moment you step into reception you feel welcome and at ease, and that sets the tone for whatever your appointment entails.All of us are moving to Oatlands Dental Lounge, and I can now personally recommend Sarah the hygienist as well as Neil.My only regret is that we didn't find them sooner.
The Dentist kept me calm and was super reassuring. Felt NO PAIN at all, not even for the local anaesthetic in the gums. He ensured to answer ALL my questions and saved me from the agony I had in my teeth and headboard have for over a week. He has done what no other dentist has ever done for me. Reassurance, no pain and asked for a follow up. I will definitely use him again.
Oatlands dental lounge has been absolutely outstanding with helping me with fixing my teeth. Neil is amazing and has not only transformed my teeth but restored confidence and professional advice for my teeth. I have received orthodontics and a brace, which I am absolutely over the moon with the results and care from doctor George. Not only medically treating me and restoring my teeth, the hygienist appointments at this clinic are insane, the difference is amazing and my teeth have never looked and felt better. I cannot express how much the dental surgery has helped me.
I had an amazing experience with Neil. He is very professional. He did my front teeth and they look better than ever! I also visit hygienist here regularly and the experience is always very positive. Everyone is very helpful and friendly! Highly recommend!
I highly recommend Omesh and the team at Oatlands for oral surgery. As a nervous dental patient, I’d been putting off having all 4 wisdom teeth extracted until I met with Omesh. His calm & informative approach made the whole process smooth, comfortable and full of genuine care. I’ve been impressed (and relieved!) to have had a pain free experience using sedation & I’ve also been so grateful for the post procedure care too. Thank you so much!
Having had a terrible cosmetic dentistry experience with another dentist in Bristol a few years ago - I was pretty nervous to start the process again. I decided to go with Oatlands after reading their excellent patient reviews and I am so, so glad I did! Neil has been absolutely amazing throughout the whole process of getting my veneers. He really listened to what I wanted to achieve, was honest and professional, and ensured perfection throughout. I couldn't be happier with the service or the results - thank you Neil & the team!
Great hygienist. First time no pain yay! Top work as she showed me the before and after so you known the treatment worked as it should! Couldn’t recommend more!
Damon Braces vs Ceramic Braces: Which Fixed Orthodontic Option Is Best?
Choosing fixed braces is an important decision. For many adults and teenagers, the main choice comes down to appearance, treatment needs, comfort and cost.
Two popular options are Damon Braces and ceramic braces. Both can straighten teeth and improve your bite, but they use different bracket systems and offer different benefits.
Damon Braces use self-ligating brackets, while ceramic braces use tooth-coloured or clear brackets. The right option depends on your teeth, bite, treatment goals and personal preferences.
At Oatlands Dental Lounge, we provide orthodontic treatment for patients in Weybridge and the surrounding areas. The practice also has extensive experience with Damon Braces, including adult orthodontic treatment.
If you are comparing Damon Braces vs ceramic braces, this guide explains the main differences and what to consider before choosing fixed orthodontic treatment.
What Are Damon Braces?
Damon Braces are a type of self-ligating fixed brace.
Unlike many traditional braces, the Damon system uses a specialised mechanism within the brackets to hold the orthodontic wire. This removes the need for traditional elastic ties and allows the wire to move more freely within the bracket.
Oatlands Dental Lounge offers both Damon Metal and Damon Clear options. The practice states that Damon Braces can be used to treat concerns such as crowded teeth, crooked teeth, gaps, crossbites, overbites and underbites.
The practice currently lists fixed appliance orthodontics using Damon from £3,000. The final cost depends on the treatment plan and individual case.
What Are Ceramic Braces?
Ceramic braces are fixed braces that use tooth-coloured or clear brackets.
The main advantage is appearance. Ceramic brackets can blend more closely with the natural colour of your teeth than traditional metal brackets.
Ceramic braces work by using brackets and an orthodontic wire to apply controlled pressure to your teeth. The exact design can vary depending on the orthodontic system used.
At Oatlands Dental Lounge, Damon Clear is also available for patients who want a more discreet fixed brace. The practice explains that Damon Clear uses clear brackets while working on the same basic self-ligating principle as Damon Metal.
Damon Braces vs Ceramic Braces: Key Differences
Damon Braces and ceramic braces can both provide effective tooth movement. However, they differ in several important areas.
Feature
Damon Braces
Ceramic Braces
Bracket system
Self-ligating
Ceramic fixed brackets
Appearance
Metal or clear options
Tooth-coloured or clear
Fixed treatment
Yes
Yes
Cosmetic appeal
High with Damon Clear
High
Elastic ligatures
Not used in the same way as conventional braces
Depends on the system
Durability
Metal Damon brackets are highly durable
Ceramic can be more brittle
Cost
From £3,000 at Oatlands Dental Lounge
Depends on treatment and appliance
Best for
Patients wanting a fixed self-ligating system
Patients prioritising a discreet fixed appliance
Your orthodontist should assess your teeth and bite before deciding which system is appropriate.
Damon Braces vs Ceramic Braces: Appearance
Appearance is often one of the biggest factors for adult orthodontic patients.
Traditional metal Damon Braces are visible when you smile. Damon Clear offers a more discreet alternative because it uses clear brackets.
Ceramic braces are also designed to blend with the natural colour of your teeth. This makes them popular with adults who want fixed braces without the appearance of traditional metal brackets.
If appearance is your main concern, ask about both ceramic braces and Damon Clear during your consultation.
There is also another option to consider: Invisalign clear aligners. These use removable, transparent aligners instead of fixed brackets and wires. Oatlands Dental Lounge provides Invisalign treatment for suitable patients.
Which Is More Comfortable?
Both Damon Braces and ceramic braces place controlled pressure on the teeth. Some pressure or mild soreness is normal when teeth begin moving or after adjustments.
Damon Braces use a low-friction design that allows the archwire to move within the bracket. Oatlands Dental Lounge states that this system uses gentle forces to guide teeth into position.
However, comfort varies between patients.
It can depend on:
The amount of tooth movement required
Your individual sensitivity
The stage of treatment
Adjustments made during appointments
Your specific orthodontic system
For this reason, you should not choose Damon Braces solely because they are marketed as more comfortable. Your orthodontist can explain what you are likely to experience based on your treatment plan.
Which Treatment Is Faster?
Treatment time varies from patient to patient.
The length of orthodontic treatment can depend on:
The level of crowding
Your bite
The amount of tooth movement needed
Your response to treatment
How closely you follow your orthodontist’s instructions
Oatlands Dental Lounge states that Damon treatment can take around 9 to 24 months, depending on the individual case.
This does not mean every Damon patient will finish treatment within this range, or that Damon Braces will always be faster than ceramic braces.
Your orthodontist should provide an estimated treatment time after assessing your teeth and bite.
Which Braces Need Fewer Appointments?
Appointment frequency depends on your treatment plan.
Oatlands Dental Lounge states that patients having Damon Braces are generally reviewed every 4–6 weeks to monitor progress and adjust the appliance.
The Damon system does not use conventional elastic ties in the same way as traditional braces. This can make some adjustment appointments more straightforward.
However, you still need regular orthodontic reviews. These appointments allow your orthodontic team to monitor tooth movement and make changes when required.
Oral Hygiene During Treatment
Good oral hygiene is essential with both Damon Braces and ceramic braces.
Fixed braces create additional areas where plaque and food can collect. Poor cleaning can increase the risk of tooth decay and gum problems.
You should:
Brush your teeth twice a day.
Clean between your teeth every day.
Use interdental brushes where recommended.
Limit sugary foods and drinks.
Attend regular dental hygiene appointments.
Follow your orthodontist’s cleaning advice.
Healthy gums are especially important during orthodontic treatment.
If you already have gum problems, Oatlands Dental Lounge provides periodontal treatment to assess and manage gum health. This can be important before starting orthodontic treatment.
Which Is More Durable?
Metal Damon brackets are strong and can be used for a wide range of orthodontic cases.
Ceramic brackets are also designed for orthodontic treatment, but ceramic is generally more brittle than metal.
This means patients wearing ceramic braces may need to take extra care with certain hard or sticky foods.
Your orthodontist will consider your treatment needs when recommending the most suitable bracket system.
If you play contact sports or have habits such as biting pens or hard objects, mention this during your consultation.
Can Both Treat the Same Orthodontic Problems?
Both Damon Braces and ceramic braces can be used to treat many common orthodontic concerns.
These may include:
Crowded teeth
Crooked teeth
Gaps between teeth
Overbites
Underbites
Crossbites
Open bites
Teeth that have moved after previous orthodontic treatment
Oatlands Dental Lounge specifically lists Damon Braces as an option for crowded, crooked and widely spaced teeth, as well as crossbite, overbite and underbite cases.
However, not every brace is suitable for every patient.
The important question is not simply which brace is more popular. It is which system can achieve your required tooth movement safely and predictably.
What About Invisalign?
If you want to avoid fixed braces, clear aligners may be another option.
Invisalign at Oatlands Dental Lounge uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually move the teeth. The practice explains that aligners can be used for problems such as crowding, spacing and bite concerns, depending on the individual case.
Clear aligners may appeal to adults who want a discreet treatment option and the ability to remove their appliance when eating and cleaning.
However, aligners are not suitable for every case. Some patients may achieve a more predictable result with fixed braces.
Your orthodontic assessment should determine whether Damon Braces, ceramic braces, Invisalign or another option is most appropriate.
Healthy Teeth and Gums Come First
Before starting orthodontic treatment, your teeth and gums should be assessed.
Existing dental problems may need treatment before braces are fitted.
For example, gum disease can affect the tissues supporting your teeth. Periodontal treatment can help address gum problems before or during orthodontic care.
If you have a damaged or infected tooth, additional dental treatment may also be needed before orthodontic treatment begins.
Where missing teeth are present, orthodontic treatment may form part of a wider treatment plan. Oatlands Dental Lounge also provides dental implant treatment for suitable patients.
This is why your orthodontic plan should consider your overall oral health, not just the position of your teeth.
What Happens During Your Orthodontic Consultation?
Your first appointment helps determine which orthodontic treatment is suitable.
Your assessment may include:
1. Dental and Orthodontic Assessment
Your teeth, gums and bite are examined to identify the problems that need treatment.
2. Diagnostic Records
Photographs, dental impressions, scans or X-rays may be used where appropriate.
3. Treatment Discussion
Your orthodontic team will explain the available treatment options and discuss your goals.
4. Personalised Treatment Plan
You can then discuss expected treatment time, appliance options, costs and the results that can realistically be achieved.
Oatlands Dental Lounge currently lists adult orthodontic consultations from £195 and a full orthodontic case assessment, including diagnostics, at £650.
Damon Braces vs Ceramic Braces: Which Should You Choose?
There is no single fixed brace that is best for every patient.
Damon Braces may suit you if you:
Want a self-ligating fixed brace
Prefer metal or clear Damon options
Want a fixed appliance for a complex orthodontic case
Prefer a system without traditional elastic ligatures
Are comfortable with the appearance of fixed braces
Ceramic braces may suit you if you:
Want a discreet fixed brace
Prefer tooth-coloured brackets
Are concerned about the appearance of metal braces
Are suitable for conventional fixed orthodontic treatment
Want an aesthetic option without choosing removable aligners
The final decision should be based on your clinical needs, treatment goals, budget and personal preferences.
Why Choose Oatlands Dental Lounge for Orthodontic Treatment?
Oatlands Dental Lounge provides orthodontic and wider dental care in one practice.
The practice has experience with Damon Braces, including treatment for adults and children. Dr Yasmin George has a special interest in adult and children’s orthodontics and extensive experience with Damon treatment.
Patients can also access other dental services if they need additional care before, during or after orthodontic treatment.
For example, the practice provides prosthodontic treatment for restoring and replacing worn or missing teeth.
Damon Braces and ceramic braces can both be effective fixed orthodontic options.
Damon Braces may appeal to patients who want a self-ligating system and the option of metal or clear brackets.
Ceramic braces may suit patients who place a high value on having less noticeable fixed brackets.
Neither option is automatically better for everyone.
The best choice depends on your bite, tooth position, oral health, treatment goals, budget and personal preferences.
If you are considering fixed braces in Weybridge, an orthodontic consultation at Oatlands Dental Lounge can help you compare your options and understand which treatment is suitable for your smile.
FAQs
Are Damon Braces better than ceramic braces?
Not necessarily. Both can be effective. The better option depends on your teeth, bite, treatment goals and personal preferences.
Are ceramic braces less noticeable than Damon Braces?
Ceramic braces use tooth-coloured or clear brackets, so they are designed to be discreet. Damon Clear can also provide a less noticeable fixed-brace option.
Are Damon Braces faster?
Treatment time depends on the complexity of your case. Oatlands Dental Lounge states that Damon treatment can take around 9–24 months, but your actual treatment time will depend on your individual needs.
Which is better for adults, Damon or ceramic braces?
Both can be suitable for adults. Ceramic braces may appeal to patients who want a discreet fixed appliance, while Damon Braces may appeal to patients who prefer a self-ligating system.
How much do Damon Braces cost at Oatlands Dental Lounge?
The practice currently lists fixed appliance orthodontics using Damon from £3,000. Your actual cost will depend on your treatment plan.
Can I have Invisalign instead of fixed braces?
In some cases, yes. Oatlands Dental Lounge offers Invisalign, but suitability depends on your orthodontic needs.
Do I need healthy gums before getting braces?
Yes. Good gum health is important for orthodontic treatment. If you have gum disease or another oral health problem, this may need to be addressed before braces are fitted.
How often will I need appointments with Damon Braces?
Oatlands Dental Lounge states that Damon patients are generally seen every 4–6 weeks to monitor progress and make adjustments. Your schedule may vary depending on your treatment plan.
