Dental Alignment Research Articles

DIFFERENT BITE CLASSES AND THEIR INFLUENCE ON BODY POSTURE: A REVIEW

This review explores the relationship between dental occlusion, particularly malocclusion, and its impact on body posture, emphasizing the musculoskeletal effects of different occlusal bite classifications. Class I, II, and III malocclusions affect head, neck, and spine alignment, which can lead to musculoskeletal disorders, chronic pain, and postural imbalances. Class II (overbite) results in anterior head posture, increasing strain on the cervical spine, while Class III (underbite) causes posterior head posture, leading to compensatory stress in the spine and lower back. Research highlights the biomechanical effects of malocclusion on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and spine, contributing to conditions like kyphosis, lordosis, and gait abnormalities. A comprehensive search of relevant literature was conducted using databases such as PubMed and Google Scholar. This review identified a need for interdisciplinary treatment approaches combining dental, orthopedic, and physical therapy interventions to address both dental alignment and musculoskeletal health. Orthodontic treatments, such as braces and jaw surgery, help realign the jaw, reducing postural strain, while physical therapy can alleviate muscle tension and improve overall body alignment. These insights highlight the importance of integrating dental and postural treatment strategies for improved patient outcomes.

The Impact of Orthodontic Treatment on Body Weight Due to Change in Dietary Habits.

Background Orthodontic treatment, while primarily focusing on correcting dental alignment and occlusion, has been increasingly validated for its potential impact on broader aspects of oral health and general well-being: its potential influence on body weight. While the mechanical effects of orthodontic appliances are well documented in the literature, their potential behavioral impact on weight loss remains underexplored. Beyond its primary role in correcting dental alignment, our study has unveiled a lesser-known benefit: its potential to aid in weight reduction among individuals who have already struggled through conventional methods. Orthodontic treatment is a surprising yet successful intervention in the field of weight management. Often known only for its use in correcting dental malalignments, our research has revealed an additional benefit: it can help people who have struggled to do so with other conventional methods lose weight. Orthodontic treatment accomplishes the same goals more quickly and with few side effects. In addition to highlighting the aesthetic and functional benefits of orthodontics, this growing body of knowledge also presents orthodontics as a novel solution for individuals struggling with weight issues. In exploring the mutually beneficial relationship between orthodontic care and weight loss, we looked at a way to achieve both improved overall health and fitness along with dental alignment. Since obesity is associated with a notably higher risk of negative health outcomes, losing weight not only helps you feel better about yourself but also improves your general health and wellness. This study explores the relationship between orthodontic treatment and reduction in weight among patients undergoing treatment at Sardar Begum Dental College. Its primary objective is to assess and compare changes in body weight among the said patients. Methodology This observational prospective study was carried out at the Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopaedics, Sardar Begum Dental College, Peshawar. Every patient gave their informed consent and expressed their willingness for participation in the study. An online sample size calculator (OpenEpi)was used. The confidence level was set to95% with a margin of error of ±5%, and the sample sizecalculated was 150. The patients were chosen using a convenient sampling technique. The patients' weights were recorded on the days of bonding (T0) and one month (T1), two months (T2), and three months (T3) following bonding. Data was processed using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 22.0 (Released 2013; IBM Corp., Armonk, New York, United States). Since the data was not normally distributed, the Wilcoxon signed-rank test was applied. Results The Wilcoxon signed-rank test revealed that body weight was significantly reduced one month, two months, and three months after bonding. The body weight on the day of bonding (median=48.200; n=150) was compared to the body weight after one month (median=47.800; n=150), resulting in a statistically significant decrease (z=-9.480; p=0.000) with a large effect size (r=-0.547). The analysis shows a significant decrease in body weight after one month of orthodontic bonding, with a large effect size indicating a substantial impact of the orthodontic treatment on body weight. Conclusion Fixed orthodontic treatment appears to have an impact on body weight, i.e., weight is reduced after the first, second, and third months of bonding.

Orthodontic treatment from childhood to adolescence with minimally invasive therapy correction of atypical swallowing and dental alignment. A case report

This case report describes a minimally invasive orthodontic approach for a patient who was identified in childhood and followed through adolescence. The approach was intended to correct atypical swallowing, diastemas, and overjet. The treatment used two devices: the Froggy Mouth for myofunctional therapy and clear aligners for dental alignment and overjet correction.

Management of the Maxillary Labial Frenum

This study examined the maxillary labial frenum (MLF) and its clinical implications, focusing on its anatomy, developmental changes, and management strategies. The MLF functions as a connective tissue linking the upper lip to the alveolar ridge, facilitating essential processes such as speech production, food consumption, and the maintenance of proper dental alignment. Abnormal development or attachment can result in midline diastema, speech difficulties, and breastfeeding challenges. During growth, the MLF typically migrates from the alveolar crest in infancy to the mucogingival junction by adulthood; however, in some cases, this migration fails, leading to persistent diastema or other oral health concerns. The timing of frenectomy remains unclear. Certain experts advocate for early intervention to facilitate orthodontic treatment, while others recommend postponing surgical procedures until orthodontic efforts are completed, as the majority of diastemas close naturally with the eruption of permanent canines. In instances where diastema persists, frenectomy may be necessary to prevent relapse. Restrictive frenum attachments have been linked to breastfeeding difficulties; however, feeding outcomes can also be influenced by factors such as maternal technique and infant feeding patterns. This review highlights the need for individualized assessment and treatment planning, balancing surgical intervention with natural development, to ensure the best outcomes for each patient.

Is Copper Ni-Ti more effective than conventional Ni-Ti in terms of rapid tooth alignment and mandibular arch expansion? A double-blind randomized clinical trial

In the first phase of orthodontic treatment, initial archwires are used to resolve crowding and correct rotations. Light, continuous forces are required to achieve optimal tooth movement. Nickel-titanium (Ni-Ti) archwires are commonly used as initial archwires due to their unique properties. The objective of this study was to compare the Copper Ni-Ti 35°C and the conventional Ni-Ti in dental alignment and maintaining the mandibular arch form. Adouble-blind randomized controlled trial was conducted on adult patients, recruited from the orthodontic department of Saint Joseph University of Beirut and a private orthodontic practice in Beirut. They were randomly allocated into two groups: Copper Ni-Ti 35°C group and conventional Ni-Ti group, where they received both 0.016inch and 0.018inch archwires. Out of three available arch forms, each patient received the most suited archwire to their mandibular arch. Digital impressions were taken every three weeks and analyzed on Orthoanalyzer™. The Little Irregurality Index, space analysis and intercanine, interpremolar, intermolar distances were measured. Repeated measures analysis of variance ANOVA was used followed by Bonferroni multiple comparisons tests. Forty patients were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to either Copper Ni-Ti 35°C or Ni-Ti group. No significant difference between the Copper Ni-Ti 35°C and the conventional Ni-Ti was noted in the resolution of dental crowding (p > 0.05). No significant difference in the dimensions of the mandibular arch was found within and between the two groups (p > 0.05). Copper Ni-Ti 35°C doesn't differ from the conventional Ni-Ti regarding the alignment rate and maintaining the mandibular arch form.

Dental Treatment Needs Among 16-Year-Old Patients with Cleft Lip and Palate: An Observational Study in Western Norway

Objectives This study aimed to a) assess intermaxillary sagittal relations, dental alignment, and occlusion among patients with Cleft Lip and/or Palate (CL/P) and b) evaluate the need for future dental treatment. Material/methods Clinical assessment, lateral cephalogram, orthopantomogram, and study models from 1019 patients with CL/P collected at age 16 from the Bergen national CLP team in Norway. Records included the number of dental agenesis or hypoplasia, ANB angulation, dental alignment, occlusion, oronasal fistula, and indications for future dental treatment needs. Results One-third required further treatment by an orthodontist, prosthodontist, or oral surgeon in adulthood, and complete bilateral or unilateral CLP had a significantly higher need than patients with isolated cleft of the lip or the palate. Missing teeth increased the risk for retrognathic maxilla (OR = 3,62), need for orthodontic and prosthodontic treatment (OR = 5.20), and a negative overjet and need for orthognathic surgery (OR = 4.86) (p < 0.001). Oronasal fistula was present in 4.7% of the participants, significantly worsening all clinical indicators (p < 0.001). Boys exhibited more adverse findings than girls, except regarding the need for dental porcelain bridges. A noticeable trend indicated increased dental treatment needs among 16-year-old patients with clefts born between 1990–2001, compared to patients born between 1980–1990. Conclusions/Implications The findings underscore the need for comprehensive, individualized treatment plans and interdisciplinary dental services for adult patients with CL/P. The original cleft pattern, male gender, presence of oronasal fistula, and a high number of missing teeth negatively influenced the dental status and treatment outcomes measured at the 16-year-old assessment.

Methods of distalization. Literature review

As orthodontics has evolved, the focus of practice has shifted from extractions to alternative methods of dental alignment, taking into account facial aesthetics. The distalization of the maxillary molars, in use for over a century, has emerged as an effective solution for a variety of orthodontic challenges, including dental crowding and Class II malocclusion. Distalization methods vary based on the characteristics of the case and the biomechanics of the device, ranging from fixed to removable devices and from intraoral to extraoral. Although the Headgear, Herbst, Distal Jet, and Pendulum are among the most commonly used techniques, all require careful patient selection. Moreover, the recent use of skeletal anchorage via mini-implants extends distalization possibilities, providing solutions for complex cases. Thus, it’s essential for the clinician to evaluate and choose the most suitable technique for each patient.

An evaluation of occlusal changes during orthodontic retention

The problem of orthodontic relapse is of fundamental importance for clinicians. In the literature there are few studies concerning the change in position of the teeth after orthodontic treatment. This study analyzes the occlusal changes during the first six months of orthodontic retention and the effectiveness of the Hawley retainer at the upper arch and the canine-to-canine multi-stranded fixed retainer at the lower arch in maintaining the anterior tooth alignment. 48 patients were recruited. PAR index, ABO DI, ABO CRE, Irregularity Index, intercanine, interpremolar and intermolar widths were measured for each patient before (T0) and at the end (T1) of the fixed orthodontic treatment and after 1 (T2), 3 (T3) and 6 (T4) months of retention. Statistics used were paired samples t-test and Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed-ranks test. The p-value was considered statistically significant for P<0.05. During 6 months in retention there was a worsening of PAR index (mean: 1.13±1.08; P<0.001), dental alignment (median: 2.5; P=0.0001) and occlusal relationships (median: 2; P=0.0101); a statistically significant improvement of posterior occlusal contacts (median: 2.54; P=0.0004), marginal ridges (median: 0.5; P=0.0250) and interproximal contacts (median: 0.46; P=0.0305). The stability of the orthodontic results has proved to be similar for the two dental arches, as well as the effectiveness of the two retainers in maintaining the alignment of the anterior teeth. During 6 months in retention the occlusal changes were minimal and didn’t affect the stability of the orthodontic treatment in a clinically significant manner. The effectiveness of the upper Hawley retainer and the lower multi-stranded fixed retainer in maintaining the alignment of the anterior teeth was similar.

A Comparison of Arch Length, Intercanine Width, Intermolar Width, and Interalveolar Width in Patients With Angle's Class II Division I Malocclusion With Shallow and Deep Palates.

Background and objective Palatal depth is significant as it impacts the intra-arch dimensions in patients with Angle's Class II Division 1 malocclusion. Hence, understanding this relationship is crucial for developing targeted orthodontic treatment plans, to optimize dental alignment and overall facial aesthetics. This study aimed to compare the arch length, intercanine width, intermolar width, and interalveolar width in patients with Class II Division 1 malocclusion with deep palates and those with shallow palates. Methods The study involved 88 patients aged 18-30 years, categorized into two groups based on palatal depth: Group A (deep palates) and Group B (shallow palates). Measurements were taken for arch length, intercanine width, intermolar width, and interalveolar width. An independent samples t-test was used to compare these measurements between the groups, with statistical significance set at p<0.05. Results The analysis revealed significant differences in intermolar and interalveolar widths between the two groups. Group B, with shallow palates, showed larger intermolar and interalveolar widths compared to Group A, with deep palates (p = 0.001 and p = 0.017, respectively). However, no significant differences were observed in arch length and intercanine width between the groups. Conclusions Our findings suggest that palatal depth is significantly associated with certain intra-arch transverse dimensions, particularly intermolar and interalveolar widths. These differences underline the importance of considering palatal morphology in the orthodontic treatment of patients with Class II Division 1 malocclusion.

Clinical and Cephalometric Comparison of Preorthodontic Trainer and Twin Block Appliance in Growing Patients with a Retropositioned Mandible in Skeletal Class II Malocclusion: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Abstract Introduction: Developing Class II malocclusion is one of the prevalent and dramatic problems in the growing dentition stage, which demands early interception. The prefabricated preorthodontic trainer (POT) was created in response to the need for a prefabricated, configurable device. The trainer system was created to combine the principles of myofunctional therapy with dental alignment into a user-friendly, single-size device. Materials and Methods: Patients after diagnosis with angles Class II malocclusion with retro-positioned mandible and an overjet &gt;4 mm and ANB more than 4°, with normal dentition for the age were selected for the study. The study conducted, was an experimental randomized clinical trial on a sample size of 12, 6 of which were given the POT appliance and 6 acted as the control group and were given the conventional twin block appliance. Results: The overjet and overbite measures between the experimental and control groups did not differ significantly. Superior soft-tissue changes were accomplished with the POT appliance. The sagittal advancement by the POT and twin block appliance improved the upper and lower airway considerably. Conclusion: In comparison to standard twin block appliances, the POT appliance offers an easy alternative treatment strategy. The twin block appliance caused more skeletal alterations than the POT, although both appliances corrected a developing Class II Division 1 malocclusion. The POT appliance however, resulted in better soft-tissue corrections.

Orthodontic treatment of patients with cleft lip and palate from birth through maturity

Cleft lip and palate (CLP) is one of the most common congenital anomalies, requiring lifelong care by a team of craniofacial specialists. A key member of that team is the craniofacial orthodontist, who provides treatment for these patients throughout the lifetime. This care actually begins prenatally, when families first meet with a craniofacial team. The family is provided with resources to prepare for their child's arrival and counseled about future treatment. Presurgical infant orthopedics (PSIO) will usually begin within a week of birth and continues for 3–5 months. PSIO helps approximate the lip and alveolar segments and reshapes the nostrils to facilitate primary surgical repairs. This is followed by a phase of monitoring growth and dental development throughout childhood, as patients with CLP are at increased risk for dental anomalies. Once the maxillary canine roots are one-third developed, the patient will be prepared for secondary alveolar bone grafting. This may include expansion, alignment, and/or maxillary protraction via facemask therapy. A short phase of maxillary dental alignment might follow if functional or esthetic concerns arise. Comprehensive orthodontic treatment is then performed at skeletal maturity, and coordinated with orthognathic surgery when indicated. The orthodontist and surgeon will collaborate closely in planning and managing the surgical correction. It is crucial that each stage of orthodontics is followed by an appropriate retention protocol. Finally, surgical and esthetic finishing procedures take place after surgical orthodontics is complete. This may include surgery to address lip, nose, speech, and breathing concerns, as well as definitive dental restorations.

Assessing Cephalometric Changes in Deep Bite Correction: An Analysis of Class II Division 1 Orthodontic Patients Treated with the Reverse Curve of Spee Archwire

ABSTRACT Objective: This study aimed to analyze cephalometric changes associated with deep bite correction using the Reverse Curve of Spee (RCS) archwire in class II division 1orthodontic patients. Methods: A total of 168 orthodontic patients (aged 12-25 years) with diagnosed deep bite malocclusion underwent deep bite correction using RCS archwires between January 2019 and December 2020. Cephalometric radiographs were taken at various time points to assess skeletal and dental changes. RCS archwires were customized based on individual treatment plans, and a structured follow-up schedule was implemented to monitor progress and make necessary adjustments. Results: The study analyzed cephalometric changes in the entire cohort, considering age and gender subgroups. Preliminary findings indicate significant improvements in overbite reduction and dental alignment. Subgroup analyze reveal potential age-related variations in treatment response, with younger patients demonstrating slightly more favorable outcomes (Changes in overbite: -2.0 mm, P = 0.05). Gender differences in cephalometric changes are also observed, suggesting the need for gender-specific considerations in deep bite correction (Changes in dental alignment: -1.5 mm in males, -1.2 mm in females, P = 0.03). Conclusion: This retrospective analysis provides valuable insights into the cephalometric changes associated with RCS archwire intervention for deep bite correction.

Reversing the Effects of Tongue Thrusting Using Tongue Tamers

This case report presents the successful correction of a tongue thrusting habit in a 8-year-old patient using tongue tamers as the primary therapeutic intervention. The patient exhibited anterior open bite and misaligned dentition, both attributed to chronic tongue thrusting during swallowing and speech. A thorough clinical examination and orthodontic assessment confirmed the need for habit correction to prevent further malocclusion and aid in proper dental development. The treatment plan involved the placement of tongue tamers on the lingual surfaces of the maxillary anterior teeth, aimed at retraining the tongue to adopt a correct posture during swallowing. The patient was also provided with oral habit awareness exercises to reinforce the therapy. Follow-up evaluations at 3, 6, and 12 months revealed a significant reduction in tongue thrusting behavior, with a corresponding improvement in the patient’s dental alignment and closure of the anterior open bite. The successful outcome highlights the effectiveness of tongue tamers in correcting tongue thrusting when used in combination with patient cooperation and regular monitoring. This case supports the use of this minimally invasive intervention for habit correction in growing children, improving both functional and aesthetic dental outcomes.

Psychopathology in Infants, Toddlers, and Preschool Children with Nonsyndromic Clefts of the Lip and/or Palate: A Case-Control Study.

The aim of this study is to assess psychopathology and maternal interactions in infants, toddlers, and preschool children with nonsyndromic clefts of the lip and/or palate (NSCLP) and association of psychopathology with cleft-related factors and maternal interactions. Twenty-six children from 4 to 72 months of age with NSCLP, who were attending the Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery Department were included as the case group. Fifty-two healthy children who were matched on age and sex with the case group were taken as controls. Children were assessed in aspects of psychiatric diagnosis, articulation, and development. Speech and language disorders (SLD) (P<0.001), disorders of affect (DA) (P=0.005), feeding behavior disorder (P=0.002), sleep-behavior disorder (SBD) (P=0.038), and disordered mother-child relationship (P<0.001) were more prevalent in children with NSCLP. Dental alignment (P=0.024), number of operations (P=0.006), and type of operations (P=0.012) were associated with DA. The children in the case group, who had disordered relationship with their mothers had significantly more SLD (P=0.036) and SBD (P=0.039). Children with NSCLP are at risk of developing psychopathology, especially SLD and DA. Maternal interactions and the above cleft-related factors and may be the target of interventions to prevent and treat psychiatric disorders in these children.

Interceptive orthodontic treatment with elastodontic appliance for open bite in early childhood: a case series

This case series explores the effectiveness of interceptive orthodontic treatment using A.M.C.O.P elastodontic appliances for open bite correction in early childhood. The study included three patients aged 3-5 years with primary dentition open bite and associated oral habits, treated at the Odontostomatological Centre, University of Perugia. Treatment utilized A.M.C.O.P Bio-Activators, tailored for early intervention, leveraging light and biological elastic forces to guide jaw growth and correct dental alignment. The study highlights the role of timely intervention using A.M.C.O.P Bio-Activators in managing malocclusions, demonstrating significant improvements in occlusion and functional disorders. Early treatment with these devices not only corrects open bite efficiently but also reduces the need for future orthodontic interventions, emphasizing the importance of accurate diagnosis and patient compliancein achieving lasting results.

Biomechanical innovations in correcting severe malocclusions

The correction of severe malocclusions presents significant challenges in orthodontics due to the complexity and precision required for effective treatment. Recent biomechanical innovations have transformed the landscape of orthodontic care, offering more precise, efficient, and patient-friendly solutions. Advancements in orthodontic bracket systems, including the development of self-ligating brackets and heat-activated arch wires, have enhanced the control and comfort of tooth movements, reduced treatment times and improving patient outcomes. Temporary anchorage devices (TADs) have provided stable anchorage points, enabling complex tooth movements that were previously difficult to achieve. TADs have proven particularly effective in managing open bites and class II malocclusions, offering non-surgical alternatives for severe cases. The integration of digital technology in orthodontics, such as 3D imaging and computer-aided design/manufacturing (CAD/CAM), has further revolutionized treatment planning and execution. These technologies facilitate accurate diagnostics and the creation of customized orthodontic appliances, ensuring precise and predictable treatment outcomes. Clear aligner therapy, initially limited to simple cases, has advanced through the use of improved thermoplastic materials and digital customization, allowing for the treatment of more complex malocclusions. Innovative force application techniques, including the use of attachments and elastics, have expanded the capabilities of aligners, making them a versatile and effective alternative to traditional braces. Collectively, these biomechanical innovations have significantly improved the management of severe malocclusions, enhancing treatment efficiency, precision, and patient comfort. The ongoing development of these technologies promises to further advance the field of orthodontics, providing more effective and aesthetically pleasing solutions for patients with complex dental alignment issues.

Effectiveness of removable expander appliances in posterior crossbite: A review of the literature

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of removable expander appliances in the treatment of posterior crossbite by reviewing and analyzing clinical studies, scientific articles and published case reports. Background: Posterior crossbite is a dental malocclusion characterized by a transverse misalignment of the upper and lower teeth, where the upper teeth bite into the lower teeth. This condition can affect one or more dental organs and if left untreated, can lead to functional and esthetic problems, as well as imbalances in maxillofacial growth. Early correction of posterior crossbite is crucial to avoid future complications such as uneven tooth wear, temporomandibular dysfunction and facial asymmetries, and different treatment methods have been used, including removable appliances. Methodology: The research was structured from a search tree (PubMed, Scielo, Google Scholar, Dialnet, Scopus), with keywords such as: removable expandable appliance; posterior crossbite; removable orthodontics; treatment efficacy AND posterior crossbite; posterior crossbite NOT fixed appliance. Conclusions: Removable expander appliances are an effective option for treating posterior crossbite in children. Studies show that these devices correct malocclusion, promote maxillary growth and improve dental alignment. The effectiveness of the treatment depends on the cooperation of the child and parents. The choice of appliance should be based on a careful evaluation of the patient's needs, considering cooperation, severity of the malocclusion and the preferences of the patient and the orthodontist.

Evaluating the Long-Term Effects of Orthodontic Treatment on Facial Esthetics and Aging.

Orthodontic treatment is known to significantly impact facial esthetics, but there is a lack of long-term studies examining its effects, particularly in conjunction with the natural aging process. This study aims to fill this gap by investigating the enduring effects of orthodontic treatment on facial esthetics and aging over a 15-year period. Three hundred orthodontic patients aged 12 to 25 at the start of treatment were included. Dental alignment, soft tissue transformations, skeletal changes, and patient-reported outcomes were measured objectively. Statistical analyses were conducted to compare pretreatment and post-treatment measurements. Significant improvements were observed across various aspects following orthodontic treatment. Dental alignment showed a marked reduction in crowding, with an average decrease of 5.2 mm. Soft tissue transformations revealed notable advancements in lip positioning, averaging 3.8 mm, along with increased lip thickness. Skeletal changes were relatively modest, characterized by subtle alterations in chin positioning and mandibular angles. Patients reported high levels of satisfaction, reflected by an average score of 9.2 on the satisfaction scale. Despite treatment efficacy, the aging process continued to manifest natural changes in skin elasticity and fat distribution over the 15-year follow-up period. These findings underscore the multifaceted nature of orthodontic outcomes and highlight the importance of considering long-term effects on facial esthetics and aging. This longitudinal study provides valuable insights into the long-term effects of orthodontic treatment on facial esthetics and aging. It highlights significant improvements in dental alignment and soft tissue transformations, along with sustained patient satisfaction. However, modest skeletal changes and the ongoing aging process emphasize the need for managing patient expectations. These findings can guide practitioners and patients in making informed decisions regarding orthodontic interventions.

Long-term Outcomes of Traditional Braces versus Invisalign in Orthodontic Treatment

ABSTRACT Objective: This research targets to compare the longstanding outcomes of traditional braces versus Invisalign in orthodontic treatment, focusing on dental alignment, occlusal stability, patient satisfaction, and treatment duration. Methods: A retrospective cohort research with 200 subjects was piloted. One hundred subjects received traditional braces, while the other 100 received Invisalign. Dental models, cephalometric radiographs, and intraoral photographs were obtained at baseline, post-treatment, and at 1, 2, and 5 years follow-up. Patient satisfaction surveys were administered at each follow-up visit. Results: Both traditional braces and Invisalign effectively improved dental alignment and occlusal stability over the 5-year follow-up period. Patient satisfaction scores were consistently higher in the Invisalign group compared to the traditional braces group. However, there were no significant differences in treatment duration between the two groups. Conclusion: Invisalign may offer comparable or superior longstanding outcomes compared to traditional braces in orthodontic treatment, with higher patient satisfaction levels. These findings support the use of Invisalign as a viable alternative to traditional braces, particularly for subjects seeking esthetic and convenient orthodontic solutions.

The Role of Electrosurgery in the Management of Orthodontic Treatment-Induced Inflammatory Gingival Enlargement: A Report of Three Cases

Abstract Orthodontic treatment, while beneficial for correcting dental alignment and improving oral health, can sometimes lead to complications such as inflammatory gingival enlargement (IGE). This condition, characterised by the overgrowth of gingival tissues, can cause discomfort and aesthetic concerns and impede oral hygiene, potentially leading to further periodontal issues. Electrosurgery has emerged as an effective treatment modality for managing this condition. This report examines the use of electrosurgery in three cases of orthodontic treatment-induced IGE, highlighting its efficacy, advantages and outcomes.