Effectiveness and Biocompatibility of Tooth Aligners Made from Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol (PeT-G), Polypropylene (PP), Polycarbonate (PC), Thermoplastic Polyurethanes (TPUs), and Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate (EVA): A Systematic Review

This systematic review examines the efficacy and biocompatibility of orthodontic clear aligner tooth aligners constructed from polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PeT-G), polypropylene (PP), polycarbonate (PC), thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPUs), and ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA).

To find relevant papers published through September 2021, PubMed was searched extensively. Randomized clinical trials (RCTs) and observational studies assessing the effectiveness and biocompatibility of the aligner materials were included. Data were extracted independently, and the quality of included research was appraised using relevant procedures. The research variability necessitated a narrative synthesis.

Five studies were included for comparison. All materials were biocompatible; however, PeT-G and EVA aligners caused the least tissue irritation. Patients preferred TPU aligners for initial comfort and PeT-G aligners for transparency and endurance.

Biocompatible PeT-G, PP, PC, TPU, and EVA tooth aligners fix malocclusions. Aligner materials should be chosen based on patient preferences, treatment goals, and material qualities. For stronger proof, a longer-term study is needed.