Stability and Success of Clear Aligners in Orthodontics: A Narrative Review

Overview

Journal Cureus

Specialty Biomedical Engineering

Date 2024 Feb 12

PMID 38344587

Authors

Hattan S Katib

Areej M Hakami

Mashail Albalawei

Saif A Alhajri

Mishal S Alruwaily

Moath I Almusallam

Ghaida H Alqahtani

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

The implementation of Clear Aligner Therapy (CAT) in adult orthodontics exemplifies the integration of advanced technology in the dental healthcare sector. Representing a significant shift in modern orthodontics, CAT offers a convenient and aesthetic alternative to traditional fixed appliance treatments for mal-aligned dentition. This narrative review aims to explore the applicability of CAT, delineating its biomechanics, indications, contraindications, scope, limitations, and factors influencing long-term stability and successful outcomes. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using databases like Google Scholar, PubMed, Cereus, and the Cochrane Library. Articles were selected based on their relevance to clear aligners, without brand specificity, and covered a wide range of cases to establish CAT's scope and limitations. This review includes individual case studies, systemic reviews, comparative analyses, case reports, finite element analyses, and prospective and retrospective analyses, all contributing to a nuanced understanding of CAT's applicability and long-term treatment stability. The conclusion underscores CAT's growing acceptance in orthodontics, including its application in challenging cases, and highlights key determinants that bolster its long-term efficacy.

Citing Articles

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