Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 25, 2026

07:32
Measuring Maxillary Posterior Tooth Movement: A Model Assessment using Palatal and Dental Superimposition
Published on: February 23, 2024
Self-ligating versus Invisalign: analysis of dento-alveolar effects
Chiara Pavoni1, Roberta Lione, Giuseppina Laganà
1Department of Orthodontics, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy.
Annali Di Stomatologia
|January 13, 2012
Summary
Low friction self-ligating brackets significantly altered maxillary arch dimensions compared to Invisalign. This orthodontic treatment difference impacts transverse width and arch perimeter, suggesting varied outcomes for dental crowding.
Area of Science:
- Orthodontics
- Dental Arch Dimensions
- Malocclusion Treatment
Background:
- Orthodontic treatment aims to correct malocclusions and improve dental arch form.
- Self-ligating brackets and clear aligners are common orthodontic appliances.
- Maxillary arch dimensions are crucial for proper occlusion and facial aesthetics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the effects of low friction self-ligating brackets (TIME 3) versus the Invisalign technique on maxillary arch transverse dimension and perimeter.
- To evaluate changes in dento-alveolar measurements between the two orthodontic treatments.
Main Methods:
- A sample of 40 subjects (20 per group) with Class I malocclusion and mild crowding were analyzed.
- Measurements of maxillary dental casts were taken at the beginning (T0) and end (T1) of treatment.
- Independent Samples t-test was used to assess significant differences between groups (p<0.05).
Main Results:
- Statistically significant differences were observed between self-ligating brackets and Invisalign for several arch dimension measurements (CWC, FPWF, FPWL, SPWF, SPWL, AP).
- No significant changes were found for other measured values (CWL, MWF, MWL, AD).
- Treatment duration was similar for both groups (1.8 years).
Conclusions:
- Low friction self-ligating brackets resulted in statistically significant differences in transverse dento-alveolar width and maxillary arch perimeter compared to Invisalign.
- The findings suggest distinct treatment outcomes regarding arch dimensions between these two orthodontic approaches.

