Researchers at the West Virginia University School of Dentistry may have developed a novel strategy to create clear dental aligners.
Although clear aligners are sometimes used as an alternative to metal braces, the technology has only existed for about 20 years. As a result, many orthodontists believe that clear aligners still require improvements in order to demonstrate comparable efficacy to metal braces.
The researchers used three-dimensional printers capable of processing thermoplastic to make the clear aligners. After scanning the patient’s oral cavity to build a dental mold, they can then print the aligners onsite.
The thermoplastic materials are capable of softening and shrinking under warmer temperatures and will return to their original shape and harden when cooled—which could allow for the simultaneous use of tooth attachments as well as easy removal for flossing and brushing without disrupting the patient’s usual oral hygiene routine. Compared with traditional clear aligners, the thermoplastic clear aligners may exhibit greater contact with the teeth, thereby improving their ability to align the teeth over time. Further, orthodontists can personalize the aligners to best suit each individual patient’s needs.
The researchers are currently assessing the biomechanical behaviors of the novel clear aligners in addition to the stress responses of the surrounding teeth, periodontal ligaments and bone to establish the limitations of the technology.
Source: WVU Today
