Orthodontic treatment has advanced significantly with the emergence of clear aligners —transparent, removable appliances used to correct malocclusion. While conventional brackets have been widely used for many years, clear aligners are gaining popularity due to their aesthetic advantages, comfort, and technological improvements.
Related Research
A study conducted by UGM Faculty of Dentistry student Tri Sintadewi, under the supervision of Dr. drg. Cendrawasih Andusyana Farmasyanti, M.Kes., Sp.Ort(K) and Dr. drg. Sri Suparwitri, SU., Sp.Ort(K), titled “Mechanics of Clear Aligners in Producing Orthodontic Tooth Movement to Correct Malocclusion”, is a narrative review that analyzes how clear aligners move teeth to correct malocclusion, covering both mild and severe cases.
Key Findings
- Clear aligners are capable of producing various types of tooth movement, including tipping, bodily movement, intrusion, extrusion, torque, and rotation.
- Their effectiveness increases with the addition of auxiliary components such as attachments, power ridges, buttons, elastics, divots, and bite ramps, which enable more complex tooth movements and enhance performance of aligners.
Clinical Implications
- Clear aligners provide a more comfortable and aesthetic orthodontic treatment, supported by ongoing advancements in digital technology.
- Although effective across a wide range of cases, aligners require strong patient compliance and greater technological investment, while conventional brackets remain a reliable and more cost-effective option for certain conditions.
- The UGM study highlights that with the use of auxiliary features, clear aligners can approach the effectiveness of conventional brackets —even for complex tooth movements.
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Clear aligners have proven effective in correcting malocclusion, with increasingly sophisticated mechanical capabilities. However, conventional brackets continue to play an important role, particularly in complex cases or where access to advanced technology is limited. This article underscores the importance of selecting orthodontic treatment based on clinical needs and patient preference, supported by evidence-based understanding of aligner biomechanics.
References
Tri Sintadewi, Dr. drg. Cendrawasih Andusyana Farmasyanti., M.Kes., Sp.Ort(K), r. drg. Sri Suparwitri, SU., Sp.Ort(K), Mechanics of Clear Aligners in Producing Orthodontic Tooth Movement to Correct Malocclusion, https://etd.repository.ugm.ac.id/penelitian/detail/198019
Author: Rizky B. Hendrawan | Photo: Freepik
