Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 7, 2025
07:32
Author Spotlight: 3D Movement Assessment of Maxillary Posterior Teeth in Clear Aligner Treatment
Published on: February 23, 2024
1.2K
Clear aligner therapy in the mixed dentition: Indications and practitioner perspectives
Nicholas M Lynch1, Bhavna Shroff1, Caroline K Carrico2
1Department of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Va.
Summary
Orthodontists are increasingly using clear aligner therapy in mixed dentition (CAMD), though indications are limited compared to fixed appliances. Patients show better oral hygiene with CAMD, with increased future use predicted.
Area of Science:
- Orthodontics
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Dental Technology
Background:
- Clear aligner therapy (CAMD) is emerging for mixed dentition cases.
- Orthodontists' current practices and views on CAMD are not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate orthodontists' current trends and perspectives on clear aligner therapy in the mixed dentition (CAMD).
- To assess perceived indications, compliance, and oral hygiene associated with CAMD versus fixed appliances (FAs).
Main Methods:
- A 22-item survey was distributed to 1000 practicing orthodontists.
- Responses from 181 orthodontists were analyzed, comparing CAMD and FAs using statistical tests.
Main Results:
- CAMD use is less common than FAs but predicted to increase.
- Orthodontists perceive fewer indications for CAMD (e.g., skeletal expansion, growth modification) compared to FAs.
- Perceived oral hygiene is significantly better with CAMD, while compliance is similar to FAs.
Conclusions:
- CAMD is an evolving treatment for children, with orthodontists anticipating wider future adoption.
- Despite limited perceived indications compared to FAs, CAMD offers notable oral hygiene advantages.
