Orthodontic aesthetic aligners, also called clear aligners, represent a recent innovation in orthodontics, providing an aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional orthodontic braces.
These aligners are made from materials such as transparent acetate and operate similarly to conventional orthodontic braces, aiming to correct smile flaws. They are custom-made for each patient, adapting perfectly to the teeth and virtually disappearing in the mouth.
Orthodontic Aesthetic Aligners – a historical account
● By the 1970s, "plastic appliances" had already been recognized as a modality of orthodontic treatment, further expanding their acceptance.
● Year 1997: A significant milestone emerged with the creation of Align Technology, which proposed an ambitious transformation in the orthodontic treatment experience through Invisalign clear aligners. In 1998, they obtained FDA authorization to begin treatments and, in 1999, commercially launched Invisalign.
● The 2000s: A significant revolution in the orthodontic field began with the development of transparent devices. Integrating aesthetics and effectiveness, companies began investing in the design and marketing of transparent aligners manufactured using 3D printing technology.
● Currently, it is estimated that at least 20% of orthodontic treatments in the US are being conducted using clear aligners, a segment that has experienced significant growth each year. In Brazil, although treatments with aligners are on the rise, their percentage share has not yet reached significant levels.
This trajectory highlights how the combination of technology and innovation plays a crucial role in the advancement of aesthetic orthodontic aligners.
Orthodontic Aesthetic Aligners – Comparison with Fixed Braces
The main distinction between aligners and standard orthodontic braces lies in the fact that you can remove them at any time to eat, brush, or for any other reason. Composed of plates that cover the teeth, they offer greater comfort and facilitate oral hygiene. Additionally, they impose no dietary restrictions, as users can remove them during meals.
Therefore, aligners represent an excellent aesthetic choice for teenagers and adults. Younger children should not use this type of orthodontic treatment because, due to the natural growth of children, the development and expansion of their dental arches are prevented from following their normal course. So it is only for teenagers and adults.
Therefore, patients who choose aligners should make regular visits to the dentist for replacement of the devices, usually every two weeks. Maintaining proper oral hygiene during treatment is crucial to prevent dental problems.
In short, aesthetic orthodontic aligners offer a discreet and comfortable alternative to traditional braces, providing effective results in correcting dental imperfections.
Orthodontic Aesthetic Aligners
The planning process for aesthetic orthodontic aligners is extremely meticulous and involves several steps:
1. Initial assessment: The planning and production of the aligners begin after the first consultation. During this consultation, the dentist may take photos and impressions of the patient's teeth.
2. Digitization: After obtaining these molds, a digital scan is performed to create a three-dimensional model of the teeth. The orthodontist uses a scanner to capture the structure of the dental arch.
3. Digital Design: In this stage, we develop a digital design based on this 3D representation, allowing us to anticipate the final position of the teeth. The dentist performs a personalized virtual treatment plan using a digital scan of the teeth. This computerized plan makes it possible to visualize how many aligners will be needed and plan the necessary tooth movement in each phase of the treatment, which lasts approximately 15 days.
4. Aligner Manufacturing: Depending on the specifics of each situation and according to the plan, technicians manufacture aligners for different types of dental arrangements, adapting these aligners to the respective models that show step-by-step the desired evolution of tooth positioning.
5. Procedure follow-up: Every fifteen days, the responsible professional must carry out the replacement of the aligners according to the planned sequence.
Orthodontic Aesthetic Aligners
It is crucial to emphasize that the success of the treatment is directly related to the patient's cooperation in using the aligner for at least 20 hours a day, ensuring the achievement of the desired tooth movements.
Treatment time with aesthetic orthodontic aligners can vary depending on each patient's specific case. However, on average, treatment with aesthetic aligners is up to 30% faster than conventional treatment. Depending on the case, alignment can take from 4 to 8 months. It is worth noting that the patient must wear these aligners sequentially for an average of 14 days, numbered according to the progress of the treatment. However, each patient is a unique case and the exact time may vary.
Invisalign – The Pioneering Company and the Emergence of Competitors
Invisalign, developed by Align Technology, was a pioneer in the field of aesthetic orthodontic aligners and remained a leader for a long time. However, over time, other companies began to emerge and enter the competition in this market.
So one of Invisalign's main competitors is ClearCorrect. Dr. Willis Pumphrey, needing a clear aligner alternative for about 400 of his patients...
Patients opted to create their own. Within a few years, ClearCorrect was competing directly with Invisalign.
Currently, both Invisalign and ClearCorrect enjoy a high reputation and respect among both dentists and patients. Both brands provide fairly similar treatments, although they are not identical.
Besides Invisalign and ClearCorrect, several other brands of aesthetic orthodontic aligners are available on the market. However, it is essential to keep in mind that each brand has its own characteristics and advantages. The decision regarding the choice of the most appropriate aligner should be made in conjunction with a qualified oral health professional.
Orthodontic Aesthetic Aligners
Brazil's contribution to Esthetic Aligner
Esthetic Aligner is a Brazilian company that uses 3D technology to produce its aligners. Established by orthodontists with the goal of becoming the leading aligner company in Brazil, the company manufactures its products in Brazil using imported technology and materials.
A Aesthetic Aligner [The company] introduced a unique technology to meet the demands of Brazilian dentists. All aligners are manufactured locally, employing 3D digital technology and imported plates. The dentist has detailed control over the movement of each tooth, receiving a comprehensive 3D report to monitor each stage of treatment. In addition to receiving a kit with the plates, the patient also has a mobile app to schedule aligner changes and digitally monitor the progress of their case.
The company has managed to expand its operations to 4 factories globally, with the main one located in Brazil. Currently, more than 5,000 dentists worldwide have already adopted the Esthetic Aligner system.
In summary, Esthetic Aligner emerges as a leading company in the field of aesthetic orthodontic aligners, providing a high-quality and affordable alternative for patients.
Moreover, one interesting thing is that aesthetic aligners can be used to perform a teeth whitening concurrent with orthodontic treatment.
Author: Nivaldo Pinho, CROSC 9696