Aligners: The Science of Clear Orthodontics

ABSTRACT

Since their inception, clear aligners have undergone multitude of advancements that aimed to make the orthodontic treatment less conspicuous. Used for moving teeth for alignment and creating healthy and beautiful smiles, like many other orthodontic appliances, clear aligners have proven to be a much more comfortable and esthetic alternative. The treatment success relies on clinicians’ knowledge and experience with the aligners, proper case selection, and the patients’ adherence to the treatment protocols. The area of exploration of this review is limited to providing an overview of the clear aligner treatment including benefits and limitations, principles and biomechanics of clear aligner treatment, materials used, methods of fabrication, and wear time. Umpteen manufacturers have emerged accounting for the increased demand by patients seeking orthodontic treatment, with the number increasing every year. It is outside the purview of this article to elucidate and compare the array of clear aligner systems available today.