Damon Braces Price in the Philippines [2026 Complete Guide]

Quick Answer: Damon braces cost ₱90,000-150,000 in the Philippines in 2026. Damon Clear brackets are at the higher end (₱100,000-150,000), while Damon metal brackets range from ₱90,000-130,000. Non-Damon self-ligating braces start at ₱60,000-100,000. Most package prices include the initial consultation, bracket installation, monthly adjustments for the full treatment duration, and a set of retainers after removal.

Table of Contents

• What Are Self-Ligating Braces?
• Damon Braces vs Regular Braces
• Damon Braces Price Breakdown
• What Affects the Cost
• Treatment Timeline
• Pros and Cons of Damon Braces
• Clinics Offering Damon Braces
• Payment Plans and Financing
• FAQs

Introduction

Self-ligating braces have been steadily gaining popularity in the Philippines, and for good reason. They offer a more comfortable orthodontic experience with fewer clinic visits compared to traditional braces. Among self-ligating systems, the Damon System is the most recognized brand, often the first name patients encounter when researching alternatives to conventional metal braces.

But the premium price tag raises an obvious question: are Damon braces worth the extra cost over regular braces?

This 2026 guide covers everything you need to know about Damon and self-ligating braces in the Philippines -- prices by type, a head-to-head comparison with other braces, what is included in the cost, the treatment process, and where to find orthodontists who offer the Damon System. Whether you are weighing Damon against traditional metal braces or trying to decide between Damon Clear and Damon metal, this guide has the numbers and details to help you choose.

For a complete breakdown of all braces types, see our Braces Price Philippines guide.

What Are Self-Ligating Braces?

Self-ligating braces look similar to traditional braces at first glance -- they still use brackets bonded to your teeth and an archwire that guides tooth movement. The fundamental difference is how the wire connects to the brackets.

The Mechanism: Sliding Door vs Elastic Ties

Traditional braces use small rubber bands (called elastic ligatures or O-rings) to hold the archwire in place against each bracket. These elastics create friction as the wire tries to slide through the bracket, and they lose tension between visits, which is one reason monthly tightening appointments are necessary.

Self-ligating brackets replace these elastic ties with a built-in sliding door or clip mechanism. The bracket itself has a small gate that opens and closes to hold the wire. This allows the archwire to move more freely through the brackets with significantly less friction.

This reduced friction is the core advantage of the self-ligating design. With less resistance, teeth can potentially move more efficiently, and the archwire maintains consistent, gentle pressure between visits rather than relying on elastics that gradually stretch out.

Types of Self-Ligating Systems

There are two categories of self-ligating brackets:

• Passive self-ligating -- The clip does not press the wire into the bracket slot. The wire slides freely, allowing for lighter forces early in treatment. Damon brackets are passive self-ligating.
• Active self-ligating -- The clip actively presses the wire into the bracket slot, applying more direct force. Speed brackets and In-Ovation are examples of active self-ligating systems.

Damon as a Brand

The Damon System, developed by Dr. Dwight Damon and manufactured by Ormco Corporation, is the most well-known self-ligating bracket system worldwide. It uses passive self-ligating brackets paired with high-technology shape-memory archwires. Ormco markets the system as requiring fewer appointments, shorter treatment times, and providing greater comfort than conventional braces.

The Damon System comes in two main varieties:

• Damon Q (metal) -- Small, low-profile stainless steel brackets. The most affordable Damon option.
• Damon Clear -- Made from polycrystalline alumina, a transparent ceramic material. Less visible than metal but more expensive.

Other self-ligating bracket brands available in the Philippines include Empower (American Orthodontics), Speed Brackets, In-Ovation (Dentsply Sirona), and Pitts21 (OC Orthodontics). These alternatives are often priced lower than Damon while offering the same fundamental self-ligating mechanism.

Damon Braces vs Regular Braces

Here is how Damon braces compare to the other major orthodontic options available in the Philippines:

Key takeaway: Damon braces sit in the middle ground between traditional braces and Invisalign in terms of both price and experience. They cost roughly two to three times more than basic metal braces but offer tangible advantages in comfort, hygiene, and visit frequency. Invisalign remains more expensive and is limited to mild-to-moderate cases, while Damon can handle a wider range of orthodontic problems.

Damon Braces Price Breakdown

Here is a detailed breakdown of self-ligating braces costs in the Philippines as of 2026:

What's Typically Included in the Package Price

Most orthodontic clinics in the Philippines offer an all-inclusive package for Damon braces. The standard package covers:

• Initial consultation and orthodontic assessment -- Examination of your bite, teeth alignment, and jaw relationship
• Diagnostic records -- Panoramic X-ray, cephalometric X-ray, dental impressions or digital scans, and intraoral and extraoral photographs
• Treatment planning -- Your customized orthodontic plan, including projected timeline and expected results
• Bracket bonding and wire placement -- The actual installation of Damon brackets on all teeth being treated
• All adjustment visits -- Archwire changes and bracket adjustments for the entire treatment duration (typically 14-24 months)
• Emergency repairs -- Fixing broken brackets or loose wires that occur during treatment
• Bracket removal -- Debonding brackets and cleaning adhesive residue from teeth
• Retainers -- Usually includes one set of fixed retainers (bonded wire behind front teeth) and one set of removable retainers (Essix-type or Hawley)

What Usually Costs Extra

• Pre-treatment procedures -- Extractions (₱1,500-5,000 per tooth), fillings, or cleanings needed before braces installation
• Temporary anchorage devices (TADs) -- Mini-screws used for complex tooth movements, ₱5,000-15,000 per unit
• Additional X-rays or scans -- Beyond the initial diagnostic set
• Replacement retainers -- If lost or broken after treatment, ₱3,000-10,000 per set
• Interproximal reduction (IPR) -- Slight reshaping of teeth to create space, sometimes included, sometimes extra

Important: Always ask for a written breakdown of what is and is not included in the quoted price. Some clinics quote a lower headline figure but charge separately for records, retainers, or emergency repairs. Compare total costs across clinics, not just the advertised price.

Down Payment and Monthly Costs

For Damon braces, the typical payment structure at Philippine clinics is:

• Down payment: ₱40,000-75,000 (roughly 40-50% of the total package price)
• Monthly adjustment fee: ₱1,500-3,500 per visit (some clinics include this in the package; others charge per visit)
• Total out-of-pocket over treatment: ₱90,000-150,000 depending on the type and clinic

What Affects the Cost

Several factors determine where your Damon braces price falls within the ₱90,000-150,000 range:

City and Clinic Location

Orthodontic clinics in Metro Manila -- particularly those in Makati, BGC, Ortigas, and Alabang -- charge the highest rates for Damon braces. Expect prices 15-30% higher than clinics in Cebu, Davao, or other cities outside the capital region. This reflects the higher overhead costs of operating in prime Manila locations.

However, regional pricing has been narrowing in recent years as more orthodontists outside Metro Manila become certified to offer Damon and other self-ligating systems.

Case Complexity

The difficulty of your specific orthodontic case has a significant impact on cost. Simple cases involving mild crowding or minor spacing require fewer archwire changes and may be completed in under 18 months. Complex cases involving severe crowding, significant bite issues (deep bite, open bite, crossbite), or cases requiring extractions take longer and cost more due to additional materials and appointments.

If your case requires temporary anchorage devices (TADs), surgical exposure of impacted teeth, or coordination with a jaw surgeon, expect the total cost to increase beyond the standard package price.

Orthodontist Credentials and Experience

Board-certified orthodontists who are members of the Philippine Association of Orthodontists (PAO) and have completed specific Damon System training typically charge more than general dentists offering self-ligating braces. This premium reflects their specialized training -- orthodontists complete two to three years of residency training beyond dental school.

An experienced Damon-certified orthodontist may also deliver faster results by leveraging their familiarity with the system's specific wire sequence and bracket positioning protocols.

Damon Clear vs Damon Metal

The choice between clear and metal Damon brackets adds ₱10,000-20,000 to the price. Damon Clear brackets use a transparent ceramic material that blends with your teeth, making them less noticeable. Some patients opt for a hybrid approach -- Damon Clear on the upper teeth (which are more visible when smiling) and Damon metal on the lower teeth -- to balance cost and aesthetics.

Upper and Lower Jaw Treatment

Some patients only need orthodontic treatment on one arch (upper or lower). Single-arch Damon treatment costs roughly 60-70% of the full (both arches) price. However, most cases require treatment on both arches for proper bite alignment.

Treatment Timeline

Damon braces treatment typically takes 14 to 22 months for standard cases. Complex cases may extend to 28-30 months. Here is what to expect throughout the process:

Month 0: Consultation and Records (1-2 visits)

Your orthodontist examines your teeth, takes diagnostic records (X-rays, photos, impressions or digital scans), and discusses treatment options. You receive a treatment plan with a projected timeline and total cost. This is also when you decide between Damon Clear, Damon metal, or other options.

Month 1: Bracket Installation (1 visit)

Damon brackets are bonded to your teeth using dental adhesive. The first archwire -- a light, flexible nickel-titanium wire -- is placed into the brackets. The entire bonding procedure takes 60 to 90 minutes. You may feel pressure and mild soreness for the first three to five days as your teeth begin to respond to the wire's forces.

Months 2-4: Initial Alignment Phase

The first few months focus on leveling and aligning your teeth. Crowded or rotated teeth begin straightening. You will notice visible changes during this period, especially if you had significant crowding. Adjustment visits happen every six to ten weeks (less frequent than traditional braces). At each visit, your orthodontist changes the archwire to progressively stiffer wires.

Months 5-10: Space Closure and Bite Correction

Once teeth are aligned, the focus shifts to closing any extraction gaps and correcting bite issues. Stiffer stainless steel wires replace the initial flexible wires. Elastic bands (rubber bands connecting upper and lower braces) may be introduced during this phase to correct your bite. You play an active role here -- wearing elastics as directed is critical to staying on schedule.

Months 11-18: Detailing and Finishing

Fine adjustments are made to achieve the ideal final positions for all teeth. Your orthodontist checks your bite from every angle and makes small bends in the wire or repositions individual brackets as needed. This phase requires patience -- the big visible changes happened earlier, and the finishing details take time.

Month 18-22: Removal and Retention

Once your orthodontist is satisfied with the alignment and bite, the brackets are removed. This takes about 30 to 45 minutes. A fixed retainer (thin wire bonded behind your front teeth) is placed immediately, and impressions are taken for removable retainers. You will wear the removable retainer full-time for the first three to six months, then transition to nighttime-only wear.

Actual treatment time varies. Some mild cases finish in as few as 12 months. Cases involving extractions, severe crowding, or significant bite correction may take 24 to 30 months. Your orthodontist will give you a realistic estimate during your consultation.

Pros and Cons of Damon Braces

Advantages

• Fewer adjustment visits -- Damon braces typically require visits every six to ten weeks instead of every three to four weeks with traditional braces. This is a meaningful advantage for patients with busy schedules or those who need to travel for appointments.

• Potentially shorter treatment time -- The reduced friction in self-ligating brackets can allow for more efficient tooth movement. Many orthodontists report treatment times that are two to six months shorter than traditional braces for comparable cases, though this varies by case.

• Less discomfort -- The passive self-ligating mechanism applies lighter, more continuous forces compared to the intermittent, heavier forces of elastic-tied brackets. Many patients report less soreness after adjustments.

• Easier oral hygiene -- Without elastic ligatures around each bracket, there are fewer surfaces for food and plaque to accumulate. This makes brushing and flossing around your braces significantly easier and reduces the risk of white spots or cavities during treatment.

• Smaller bracket profile -- Damon Q and Damon Clear brackets are smaller and more streamlined than many traditional brackets, which reduces irritation to the lips and cheeks.

• Available in clear -- Damon Clear brackets offer a less visible option for patients who are concerned about the appearance of braces, without switching to a completely different system like Invisalign.

Disadvantages

• Higher cost -- At ₱90,000-150,000, Damon braces cost two to three times more than traditional metal braces (₱30,000-80,000). The self-ligating technology and brand premium account for much of this price difference.

• Limited availability -- Not all orthodontists in the Philippines are trained or certified to use the Damon System. This limits your clinic options, especially outside Metro Manila and Cebu.

• Still visible -- Even Damon Clear brackets are noticeable up close, particularly the metal archwire running through them. They are less visible than metal brackets but not as discreet as Invisalign.

• Bracket breakage -- The sliding door mechanism in self-ligating brackets can occasionally break or malfunction, requiring repair. While this is covered under most package plans, it still means an unscheduled clinic visit.

• Not a guarantee of faster treatment -- While the Damon System has the potential for shorter treatment, outcomes depend heavily on the orthodontist's skill, the complexity of your case, and your compliance with wearing elastics. Some cases take just as long with Damon as they would with traditional braces.

• Clear brackets may discolor -- Damon Clear brackets themselves resist staining, but the adhesive around the bracket and the small elastic ties sometimes used for bite correction can pick up color from coffee, tea, or curry over time.

Clinics Offering Damon Braces

Here are clinics in Manila and Cebu that offer Damon braces and self-ligating orthodontic treatment:

Metro Manila

Elevate Dental

• Location: BGC, Taguig and Makati branches
• Damon Price Range: ₱95,000-140,000
• Notable: Multi-branch clinic with board-certified orthodontists trained in the Damon System. Offers both Damon Clear and Damon Q. Known for modern facilities with digital scanning technology.

Asian Sun Dental Clinic

• Location: Quezon City (Tomas Morato branch) and Makati
• Damon Price Range: ₱90,000-135,000
• Notable: One of the larger dental chains in Metro Manila with dedicated orthodontic departments. Offers flexible installment plans with low down payment options. Multiple self-ligating systems available.

Smile More Dental Clinic

• Location: Makati, BGC, and Alabang branches
• Damon Price Range: ₱100,000-150,000
• Notable: Premium dental group with orthodontists who have completed advanced Damon certification. Offers hybrid options (Damon Clear on upper, metal on lower) to manage cost. Digital treatment simulation available.

Dr. Castillo Orthodontics

• Location: Ortigas Center, Pasig City
• Damon Price Range: ₱95,000-130,000
• Notable: Solo orthodontic practice focused exclusively on braces and aligners. PAO board-certified orthodontist with extensive Damon System experience. Personalized attention with fewer patients handled at a time.

Cebu

Affinity Dental Clinics

• Location: Cebu Business Park, Cebu City
• Damon Price Range: ₱85,000-130,000
• Notable: Well-established Cebu dental clinic with orthodontic specialists. Offers Damon and other self-ligating systems. Competitive pricing compared to Manila clinics for equivalent treatment quality.

OrthoSmile Dental Specialty Clinic

• Location: Banilad, Cebu City
• Damon Price Range: ₱80,000-125,000
• Notable: Specialty orthodontic clinic run by a PAO-certified orthodontist. Offers non-Damon self-ligating options starting at ₱60,000 for budget-conscious patients. Known for accommodating payment terms.

Note: Prices listed are estimates as of early 2026 and may change. Always confirm current pricing directly with the clinic during your consultation. You can browse dental clinics on ClinicFinderPH to find additional orthodontic providers in your area.

Payment Plans and Financing

Damon braces are a significant expense, but most orthodontic clinics in the Philippines offer payment structures designed to make the cost manageable.

Clinic Installment Plans

The most common financing option. Nearly all orthodontic clinics offer in-house installment plans:

• Down payment: Typically 30-50% of the total package price (₱30,000-75,000 for Damon braces)
• Remaining balance: Spread across the treatment duration in monthly payments aligned with your adjustment visits
• Interest: Most clinics offer 0% interest when payments are completed within the treatment period
• Monthly payment example: For ₱120,000 Damon Clear braces with a ₱50,000 down payment, the remaining ₱70,000 over 18 months equals roughly ₱3,900 per month

Some clinics offer lower down payment options (as low as 20%) for patients who cannot manage a large upfront cost, though this increases monthly payments.

Credit Card Installment Programs

Several clinics partner with major Philippine banks for credit card installment conversion:

• BDO, BPI, Metrobank, Security Bank -- Offer 0% interest installment plans for 3, 6, or 12 months on dental expenses at partner clinics
• How it works: You pay the full amount (or a large portion) via credit card, then the bank converts it to monthly installments on your credit card bill
• Advantage: Lets you earn credit card points or rewards while spreading the cost

Check with your orthodontic clinic whether they participate in bank installment programs before your appointment.

HMO and Dental Insurance

Limited coverage is available through some HMO plans:

• Maxicare and PhilCare -- Select premium plans include orthodontic coverage of ₱10,000-30,000. This offsets only a fraction of the Damon braces cost but still helps.
• Corporate dental plans -- Some employers offer dental benefits that include partial orthodontic coverage. Check with your HR department.
• PhilHealth -- Does not cover any orthodontic treatment, including braces of any type.

HMO coverage for orthodontics is the exception rather than the rule. Most patients pay out of pocket through clinic installment plans.

Tips for Managing the Cost

• Get quotes from at least three clinics before committing. Prices for the same Damon System can vary by ₱20,000-30,000 across clinics.
• Ask about non-Damon self-ligating options. Brands like Empower and In-Ovation use the same self-ligating concept at a lower price point (₱60,000-100,000). Your orthodontist can advise whether a non-Damon system would deliver similar results for your case.
• Consider the hybrid approach. Damon Clear on top (visible when smiling) and Damon metal on the bottom can save ₱10,000-15,000 compared to full Damon Clear.
• Factor in total cost, not monthly cost. A clinic with a lower monthly payment but longer treatment timeline may cost more overall.
• Budget for incidentals. Set aside ₱5,000-10,000 for potential extras like pre-treatment extractions, wax, special cleaning tools, and transportation to appointments over 18-24 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Damon braces worth the extra cost?

For many patients, yes -- but it depends on your priorities. Damon braces cost ₱60,000-100,000 more than traditional metal braces. In return, you get fewer clinic visits (every 6-10 weeks instead of every 3-4 weeks), potentially shorter treatment time, easier cleaning, and generally less discomfort after adjustments. If you value convenience, comfort, and are willing to invest in a more modern system, the premium is justifiable. If cost is your primary concern and you do not mind more frequent visits, traditional metal braces deliver the same end result -- straight teeth and a corrected bite -- at a much lower price.

How long does Damon braces treatment take?

Damon braces treatment typically takes 14 to 22 months for standard cases. Mild crowding or spacing issues may be resolved in as few as 12 months. Complex cases involving extractions, significant bite correction (overbite, underbite, crossbite), or severe crowding can take 24 to 30 months. While Damon's self-ligating mechanism may allow for more efficient tooth movement compared to traditional braces, the actual treatment time depends on your case complexity, your orthodontist's technique, and your compliance with wearing rubber bands and following instructions.

Do Damon braces hurt less than regular braces?

Most patients and orthodontists report that Damon braces produce less discomfort than traditional braces, particularly after adjustment visits. This is because the passive self-ligating mechanism applies lighter, more continuous forces rather than the heavier intermittent forces of elastic-tied brackets. You will still experience soreness for two to four days after each wire change -- that is a normal part of tooth movement with any type of braces. The difference is that the intensity of soreness tends to be milder with Damon brackets. Individual pain tolerance varies, and some patients feel similar discomfort regardless of bracket type.

Can I get Damon braces if I have crowding?

Yes. Damon braces are effective for treating crowded teeth, and many orthodontists specifically recommend the Damon System for crowding cases. The passive self-ligating mechanism and high-technology archwires are designed to take advantage of the body's natural adaptive processes to create space for crowded teeth. In some moderate crowding cases, Damon braces may reduce the need for tooth extractions compared to traditional braces -- though severe crowding may still require extractions regardless of the bracket type used. Your orthodontist will assess your specific level of crowding and recommend whether Damon is appropriate and whether extractions are necessary.

What's the difference between Damon Clear and Damon Metal?

The primary difference is appearance and price. Damon Clear brackets are made from transparent polycrystalline alumina ceramic, making them far less visible on your teeth than metal brackets. Damon Metal (Damon Q) brackets are made from stainless steel and are smaller in profile but fully visible. In terms of function, both use the same passive self-ligating mechanism and work with the same archwire sequence -- the clinical results are equivalent. Damon Clear costs ₱10,000-20,000 more than Damon Metal due to the premium ceramic material. Many patients choose a combination: Damon Clear brackets on the upper front teeth for aesthetics, and Damon Metal on the lower teeth and upper back teeth where visibility is less of a concern.

Conclusion

Damon braces represent a meaningful step up from traditional braces in terms of comfort, convenience, and treatment efficiency. At ₱90,000-150,000, they are a significant investment -- but for patients who value fewer clinic visits, easier oral hygiene, and a potentially faster treatment timeline, the premium over conventional metal braces is often worth it.

The self-ligating market in the Philippines has also expanded beyond the Damon brand. Non-Damon self-ligating systems starting at ₱60,000 offer the same friction-free mechanism at a lower cost, making this technology accessible to a wider range of budgets.

Whatever you decide, the most important factor is choosing a qualified, board-certified orthodontist. The best bracket system in the world will not compensate for an inexperienced provider. Get multiple consultations, compare total costs (not just headline prices), and verify that your orthodontist has specific training in the self-ligating system they are recommending.

Ready to explore your options? Browse dental clinics offering orthodontic services on ClinicFinderPH to compare prices, read patient reviews, and find a Damon-certified orthodontist near you.

Disclaimer: Prices listed in this guide are estimates based on 2026 market data and may vary by clinic, location, and case complexity. Always confirm current pricing directly with your chosen orthodontic clinic during consultation.