Editing Orthodontic Aligners

{{Short description|Clear plastic orthodontic devices for tooth movement}}
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== Definition ==
'''Orthodontic aligners''' (also known as clear aligner therapy) are removable, transparent plastic devices used for the correction of [[Malocclusion]]. They serve as an aesthetic alternative to traditional metal or ceramic [[Dental braces|braces]].

== Mechanism of Action ==
Aligners work by applying light, continuous forces to the teeth. 
* '''Incremental Movement:''' Each sequential aligner is fabricated to be slightly different from the previous one, moving teeth in increments of approximately 0.2 mm.
* '''Attachments:''' Also called "buttons," these are tooth-colored composite shapes bonded to specific teeth to assist the aligner in performing complex movements such as rotations or root torquing.
* '''Interproximal Reduction (IPR):''' In cases of crowding, a clinician may perform IPR (slenderizing) to create small amounts of space between teeth.

== Workflow and Manufacturing ==
The fabrication process is a hallmark of modern digital dentistry:
# '''Digital Impression:''' An [[Intraoral scanner]] creates a high-precision 3D map of the dental arches.
# '''Staging:''' Clinicians use proprietary software to plan the biological movement of teeth in stages.
# '''3D Printing:''' Models are printed for each stage of the treatment.
# '''Thermoforming:''' Thin sheets of medical-grade polyurethane (e.g., SmartTrack, Zendura) are molded over the 3D models.

== Comparison with Fixed Appliances ==
{| class="wikitable"
! Feature !! Clear Aligners !! Fixed Braces
|-
| '''Aesthetics''' || Highly discreet || Visible (except lingual)
|-
| '''Removability''' || Removable by patient || Fixed
|-
| '''Hygiene''' || Easier (brush/floss normally) || Difficult (requires specialized tools)
|-
| '''Compliance''' || Highly dependent on patient || Not patient-dependent
|-
| '''Force Delivery''' || Intermittent (pushing) || Continuous (pulling)
|}

== Clinical Complications ==
* '''Treatment Lag:''' Occurs when the biological movement of the teeth does not keep pace with the aligner sequence.
* '''Root Resorption:''' Though generally lower than fixed braces, excessive force can still lead to shortening of the tooth roots.
* '''Posterior Open Bite:''' A common side effect where the thickness of the plastic prevents the molars from touching properly at the end of treatment.

== See Also ==
* [[Orthodontics]]
* [[CAD/CAM Dentistry]]
* [[Retainer (orthodontics)]]

[[Category:Orthodontics]]
[[Category:Dental Technology]]