Peek polymer in orthodontics: A pilot study on children

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Digital Dentistry
• Orthodontics

Background:

• Digital technologies, including Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) and 3D scanning, are transforming dental diagnostics and therapy.
• Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) systems enable the design and fabrication of custom dental devices.
• Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) polymer is being investigated for its favorable properties in dental applications.

Observation:

• Orthodontic space maintainers were fabricated using PEEK polymer through a digital workflow.
• The digital workflow involved 3D model creation from scans or CBCT data and device design/fabrication using CAD/CAM systems.
• A nine-month follow-up assessed patient comfort, satisfaction, personalization, visibility, and the devices' efficacy in space maintenance.

Findings:

• PEEK polymer proved to be a suitable material for space maintainers due to its dimensional stability, mechanical strength, and biocompatibility.
• The digital workflow improved treatment quality, reduced costs, and minimized systematic errors.
• Patients reported the PEEK space maintainers as comfortable, satisfying, personalized, and minimally visible.
• The digital system facilitated treatment plan simulation, enhancing patient collaboration and acceptance.

Implications:

• Digital workflows and PEEK polymer offer a promising approach for producing high-quality, patient-centered orthodontic space maintainers.
• This technology streamlines the fabrication process, potentially reducing treatment time and costs in orthodontics.
• The successful application of PEEK highlights its potential for various custom orthodontic appliances, improving patient outcomes.