Clear Aligners in Pediatric Dentistry: A Scoping Review

Area of Science:

• Orthodontics
• Dental Aesthetics
• Pediatric Dentistry

Background:

• Facial and dental appearance significantly impact self-perception and psychological well-being, particularly in children.
• Traditional orthodontic treatments like braces often raise aesthetic concerns for patients during treatment.
• The demand for more discreet orthodontic solutions has driven the development of advanced technologies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the history and fabrication of clear aligners.
• To evaluate the efficacy, advantages, and disadvantages of clear aligners in pediatric patients.
• To compare clear aligners with conventional orthodontic treatments regarding aesthetics, comfort, hygiene, and predictability.

Main Methods:

• Review of historical development and fabrication processes of clear aligners.
• Analysis of clinical efficacy, patient comfort, oral hygiene, and aesthetic outcomes.
• Comparative assessment of clear aligners (e.g., Invisalign) versus traditional braces.

Main Results:

• Clear aligners provide an aesthetic and comfortable orthodontic treatment option.
• Computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) technology enables precise fabrication of transparent aligners.
• While patient compliance is crucial, clear aligners offer potential benefits in dental hygiene and patient satisfaction.

Conclusions:

• Clear aligners represent a modern, aesthetic solution for orthodontic correction in children and adults.
• Their applicability in contemporary orthodontic practice is significant, offering improved patient experience and outcomes.
• Further examination of patient happiness, compliance, and overall treatment results is warranted.