Limitation of Aligners and How to Overcome Them

Abstract

Aligners are a popular choice for many people seeking Orthodontic treatment due to their aesthetic appeal and convenience. They offer a more discreet alternative to traditional braces, as they are difficult to notice when worn. Along with that it provides an excellent substitute in the era of three-dimensional treatment planning. Clear aligners gradually exert gentle forces on the teeth, moving them incrementally until they reach the desired alignment. The aligner trays are designed to apply pressure to specific areas of your teeth, gradually shifting them into the correct position. The treatment process continues until all the teeth are properly aligned and bite is optimized. Earlier clear aligner treatment was considered to be utilized for the simpler cases, but with advancements it is proved that aligners can be one of the many possibilities for extraction cases, open bite, deep bite, interceptive and even for hybrid approaches. However, aligners may not be suitable for all Orthodontic treatment modalities, especially those requiring significant jaw alignment or complex tooth movements. This review focuses on the limitations and constraints of the type of movements provided by the clear aligners. Furthermore, this will assess the possibilities to overcome these obstacles for better performances in the near future.