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Discomfort associated with Invisalign and traditional brackets: A randomized, prospective trial
The Angle Orthodontist
|July 29, 2017
Summary
Patients undergoing traditional fixed orthodontic appliance treatment reported greater discomfort and analgesic use compared to those using clear aligners, particularly during the initial treatment phase and after monthly adjustments.
Area of Science:
- Orthodontics
- Dental Materials
Background:
- Orthodontic treatment involves managing patient discomfort.
- Comparing discomfort between clear aligners and traditional fixed appliances is crucial for patient care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare patient-reported discomfort levels between clear aligners and traditional fixed orthodontic appliances.
Main Methods:
- A blinded, prospective, randomized trial involved 41 adult patients.
- Patients recorded daily discomfort, analgesic use, and sleep disturbances for two months.
- Discomfort was assessed at rest, while chewing, and while biting.
Main Results:
- Both methods showed similar initial discomfort.
- Traditional fixed appliances led to significantly greater discomfort than aligners during the first week and after monthly adjustments.
- Chewing caused more discomfort than resting.
- A higher percentage of fixed-appliance patients used analgesics.
Conclusions:
- Traditional fixed appliances are associated with greater discomfort and analgesic consumption than clear aligners.
- The findings suggest aligners may offer a more comfortable orthodontic experience.
