Orthodontic Aligners: Current Perspectives for the Modern Orthodontic Office.

Journal: Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania)
PMID:

Abstract

Orthodontic aligners are changing the practice of orthodontics. This system of orthodontic appliances is becoming the mainstay appliance of choice for orthodontic offices in many countries. Patient preferences and lifestyle needs have made this appliance the primary choice when seeking care. In the early days, appliances lacked the efficiency and effectiveness of traditional bracket-wire systems, but modern systems are now able to handle a more comprehensive orthodontic caseload. Current systems provide newer biomechanical strategies and artificial intelligence-driven tooth movements for better outcomes. These improvements now mean that an orthodontist can be better prepared to manage a larger number of orthodontic malocclusions. This paper aims to discuss some of the evolution of orthodontic aligners and to describe to orthodontists the fundamentals of aligner therapy. In addition, it will provide an evidence-based outcome to the existing treatment outcomes in the current literature.

Authors

  • Chung How Kau
    Department of Orthodontics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA.
  • Jen Soh
    Private Orthodontic Practice, Braces & Aesthetics Dental Clinic Pte Ltd., Singapore 307506, Singapore.
  • Teti Christou
    Department of Orthodontics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA.
  • Akanksha Mangal
    Orthodontic Clinical Fellowship, School of Orthodontics, Jacksonville University, Jacksonville, FL 32211, USA.