Clear aligner therapy––Narrative review

Advancements in Clear Aligner Fabrication: A Comprehensive Review of Direct-3D Printing Technologies

Clear aligners have revolutionized orthodontic treatment by offering an esthetically driven treatment modality to patients of all ages. Over the past two decades, aligners have been used to treat malocclusions in millions of patients worldwide. The inception of aligner therapy goes back to the 1940s, yet the protocols to fabricate aligners have been continuously evolved. CAD/CAM driven protocol was the latest approach which drastically changed the scalability of aligner fabrication-i.e., aligner mass production manufacturing. 3D printing technology has been adopted in various sectors including dentistry mostly because of the ability to create complex geometric structures at high accuracy while reducing labor and material costs-for the most part. The integration of 3D printing in dentistry has been across, starting in orthodontics and oral surgery and expanding in periodontics, prosthodontics, and oral implantology. Continuous progress in material development has led to improved mechanical properties, biocompatibility, and overall quality of aligners. Consequently, aligners have become less invasive, more cost-effective, and deliver outcomes comparable to existing treatment options. The promise of 3D printed aligners lies in their ability to treat malocclusions effectively while providing esthetic benefits to patients by remaining virtually invisible throughout the treatment process. Herein, this review aims to provide a comprehensive summary of studies regarding direct-3D printing of clear aligners up to the present, outlining all essential properties required in 3D-printed clear aligners and the challenges that need to be addressed. Additionally, the review proposes implementation methods to further enhance the effectiveness of the treatment outcome.

Clear Aligner Therapy: Up to date review article

The advantages of Clear Aligners Therapy (CAT) include the braces being virtually invisible, comfortable to wear, and removable for eating and brushing; that way, CAT can be used to treat a wide range of orthodontic issues. In 1999, the company Align Technology introduced the frst commercial clear aligner system called Invisalign. The Invisalign system was initially only available to orthodontists, but later became available to general dentists as well. The system quickly gained popularity among patients who were looking for a more discreet and comfortable alternative to traditional braces. In 2000, Align Technology received FDA clearance for the Invisalign system, which further increased its popularity. The biomechanics of clear aligners involve the use of custom-made tooth aligners that are specifcally shaped to guide teeth into desired positions. These aligners are typically made from flexible materials such as polyurethane or ethylene vinyl acetate and are adjusted to apply the necessary forces for tooth movement. Attachment devices, such as power ridges or buttons, are often used to enhance or assist in specifc tooth movements and for retention of the aligner. The use of attachments allows for the exertion of desired force on the teeth, which is crucial for the success of Clear Aligner Therapy. CAT should be used if patients are concerned about the esthetic appearances of their teeth-for example, actors and other individuals that rely on their appearances in public in a professional context-and if the misalignment is not severe, so that clear aligners can still work. One should not use CAT in cases of severe crowding or spacing issues that require extractions. If the patient has complex jaw discrepancies or skeletal issues or if teeth need to be moved extensively in multiple directions, CAT is likely not going to be strong enough. In conclusion, Clear Aligner Therapy is a safe, effective, and convenient orthodontic treatment option that offers patients a virtually invisible way to achieve a straighter, more beautiful smile. With continued advancements in technology and a growing body of research supporting its effectiveness, the future of Clear Aligner Therapy looks bright.