A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Efficacy of Damon Self-Ligating Brackets Compared to Conventional Brackets in Adults

Abstract

Introduction: Self-ligating brackets, such as Damon’s type, are believed to offer advantages over conventional brackets, including reduced treatment duration, fewer visits, and potentially lower friction. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to compare the efficacy of Damon self-ligating brackets versus conventional brackets in adults.

Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted following PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Searches in PubMed/MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, and DOAJ. After screening, 23 studies were included in the qualitative synthesis and 8 in the quantitative analysis. Outcomes assessed included PAR scores, treatment duration, number of treatment visits, rate of tooth movement, and Little’s irregularity index. Data extraction and quality assessment were conducted using standard tools.

Results: The meta-analysis revealed varied outcomes for Damon self-ligating versus conventional brackets. For PAR scores, two studies indicated higher scores with Damon brackets (mean difference: 1.87, p>0.05). Four studies showed that treatment duration was shorter with Damon brackets (mean difference: -2.79 months, p>0.05). Three studies found that the number of treatment visits was fewer with Damon brackets (mean difference: -3.64 visits, p=0.05). The rate of tooth movement was slightly higher with Damon brackets according to two studies. Additionally, two studies reported that Little’s irregularity index was higher with Damon brackets (mean difference: 1.58, p<0.05). Despite these findings, high heterogeneity was present across studies, affecting the overall statistical significance.

Conclusions: Damon self-ligating brackets may reduce treatment visits and improve alignment, but results are inconsistent with high heterogeneity. More research is needed for clearer conclusions.