Clear Aligner Software in a brief

The boom of removable orthodontic appliances with the need for more individualized treatment, aided by recent advancements, led to the creation of various dental software. These software are created to assist in many of the provider’s tasks to develop the optimum orthodontic solution.

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What is the new teeth alignment technology?

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Clear aligners software is an innovative, comprehensive, and interactive software. Tailored for orthodontists and dental technicians, these programs aid in creating and overseeing a treatment plan. In addition, it aids in the input of aligner data, impression scan and submission, and the manipulation of the treatment plan.

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What is a clear aligner system?

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In a nutshell, this software depends on computer algorithms, which utilize data input by hardware for the creation of a treatment plan. This creates what is called a digital workflow.

A digital workflow is the collaboration of dental software in conjunction with hardware devices, such as CBCT and intraoral scanners. A digital workflow allows for better work efficiency. There are two types of workflows:

• Open workflow: this allows collaboration with various aligner providers
• Closed workflow: this limits the patient’s option to a single aligner brand

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Types of clear aligner systems

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Three types of clear aligner software exist.

• 3D Digital modeling software

Software equipped with a scanner allows for easy 3D mapping of the oral anatomy. This information is then shared with other applications for further data processing.

• Orthodontic treatment simulation software

This allows the visualization of the treatment plan. This is done by inserting 2D models and information, which is then processed by the software to create the final 3D model. This particular software is especially useful to incentivize the patient. By seeing the final outcome without imagining, the patient is more encouraged to cooperate and commit to the treatment procedure.

• Analysis and treatment planning software

This software is a beneficial tool. It allows for better spatial registration, storage space, and superimposition. It helps in taking cephalometric measures, which is a gold standard. In addition, it can assist in solving hygiene problems and increase the accuracy of the dental model.

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What is orthodontic treatment with a clear aligner?

A thorough step-by-step explanation below can showcase how clear aligner technology is employed for orthodontic treatment.

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Step 1: The Impression Procedure

An impression is the vessel that will transfer the data of the oral anatomy into the clear aligner software. 3 types of impression-taking are currently available

• Alginate impression: the traditional way carries many fallacies as it is prone to human error, has less accuracy with replicating details, has poor dimensional stability, and is generally more messy.
• A desktop 3D scanner: one of the clear aligner software which, through a scanner, can create a well-detailed and thorough 3D model. With a learning curve to follow, the impression taker should be wary of the intricacies of this type of software
• Intraoral scanner: a newly emerging hardware device showing promising results with increased accuracy, ease of human usage, and better provider and patient satisfaction.

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Step 2: Creation of the virtual dental model

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After the impression has been taken and data imported into the clear aligner software, a virtual dental model is the next step. Minimal human interaction is required in this step. The orthodontist or dental technician is required to locate the precise location of each tooth. This is done by entering each tooth’s medial and distal points to determine its movement. In addition, the origin of the angle and the centre of resistance must be input for each tooth. This is especially of value in cases of malrotations, where the initial rotation angle needs to be identified to determine the changes. Identification of the gum and adjustment of the tooth contour is also possible.

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Step 3: Setup

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In this phase, the user starts the tooth-moving process virtually through the software to the desired position and outcome. This is especially advantageous to complete the individualization of the treatment plan. It will determine the number of aligners needed to reach the required goal. In addition, it will control occlusions and collisions. This will allow real-time simulation of the treatment to the patient.

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Step 4: Printing

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The clear aligner can be printed in two different ways.

• Thermoforming: special machines apply heat and pressure to a thermoplastic sheet positioned on top of a 3D aligner model made specifically for the customer. Various types of plastics exist, including polyurethane, polyester, and PETG. These vary in thickness, flexibility, and mechanical properties after thermoforming. Plus, they also react differently to the oral environment and saliva exposure. For instance, Invisalign has created its own 7-layered thermoplastic. This lengthy process can take up to 8 weeks as the machines are outsourced.
• Direct 3D printing of the model: this is done through in-house 3D printers, taking as little as 1 hour to print it.

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Advantages of clear aligner software

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Digital impressions are now much preferred over silicone ones. Minimal human intervention with the increased individualization of the impression will create the perfect fit, thus ensuring a high quality of care. The presence of an auxiliary in-house laboratory puts any practice in an advantageous position. It allows the full integration of the systems. Printing 3D models within hours will improve logistics by reducing delays due to outsourcing. It will also shorten the treatment plan as there’s no need to wait for the aligner to arrive; this will incentivize the patient. Having full control over the treatment plans through software such as Invisaling’s Clinicheck will improve the accuracy, efficiency, and outcome.

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Disadvantages of clear aligner software

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Unfortunately, complicated physiological and biological processes can sometimes occur and can’t be predicted by the software. In addition, it can be a rather costly move, with the start-up cost, teaching the users, and maintenance costs.

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Commercial brands

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Various commercial clear aligner brands exist, including Dentsply, Clearcorrect, and Henry Schein. However, the pioneering clear aligner brand is Invisalign. These brands usually vary in their costs, their widespread availability, and the presence of certified providers for them.

In conclusion, the staggering growth of clear aligners in the field of orthodontics is definitely a great win for the field. By combining functionality, aesthetics, and better patient acceptability, clear aligners pave the way for a new era in orthodontics.

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At the end

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The future of clear aligner technology is bright. With the continued development of clear aligner software, we can expect to see even more innovative and effective treatments in the years to come.

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