Biomechanics of clear aligners: hidden truths & first principles

Abstract

Over the past two decades clear aligner-based treatment has received remarkableattention from the orthodontic profession and more so from general practitioners.Different companies have emerged using vigorous advertisement to promote theirproducts mainly to patients and clinicians through social media. A variety of concepts,methods, and adjuncts have been introduced to enhance the efficacy andeffectiveness of clear aligners. However, the accuracy of tooth movement (vspredicted) with aligners still hovers around 50%. Fixed appliances fare much better onaccuracy and predictability of treatment. Why is there a discrepancy betweenexpected and actual outcomes? This paper utilizes 'first principles' and the existingevidence to unravel some of the key drawbacks of aligner-based therapy. Severalshortcomings in the biomechanical properties of aligner material (thermoplastics) thataffect clinical performance are discussed. Based on the first principles of alignerbiomechanics, this paper provides clinical insights for improving predictability and effectiveness of aligner therapy.

Keywords: Aligner biomechanics; Shpae molding effect; Tooth movement; Watermelon seed effect.