Lecture Description
Introduction : Clear aligners have been used for decades, but only in non-extraction cases and mild crowding cases. There have been many innovations in aligner materials, biomechanics, and staging system recently. These changes make it possible to treat premolar extraction using clear aligners. However, it is still considered as the most difficult cases with aligners. The objective of this presentation is to discuss consideration factors in 3 aspects: patient, the biomechanics of clear aligner, and doctor.
Discussion : 1. Patient : Aligners require highly motivated patient¡¯s compliance. Doctors or dental staffs must educate them all about aligners including use and care instructions, insertion and removal,and good fitting. 2. Biomechanics of Clear Aligner : The nature and biomechanics of aligners are different from braces and wires. Proper attachments should be designed and positioned. Staged retraction, vertical control, delayed extraction is recommended. 3. Doctor : For now, first premolar extraction is accepted more predictable than second premolar in aligner therapy. Anchorage control and continuous monitoring is necessary during whole treatment time. Furthermore, combination with other appliances could be an option.
Conclusion : Clear aligner is an esthetic orthodontic treatment option. Educated patient, properly set biomechanics, and well-designed treatment planning all together could make better and acceptable treatment outcomes.
October 28-30, 2022 ¡¤ COEX, Seoul, Korea