Three-Dimensional Analysis of Occlusal Plane Changes After Clear Aligner Therapy: A Retrospective Study

Area of Science:

• Orthodontics
• Dental Morphology
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Clear aligner therapy (CAT) is a popular orthodontic treatment.
• Understanding its effects on the occlusal plane (OP) and correlation with facial divergence is crucial for treatment planning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate occlusal plane (OP) changes following clear aligner therapy (CAT).
• To determine if these changes correlate with a patient's facial divergence.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 3D models from 118 patients treated with clear aligners.
• Utilized CAD-CAM software to define palatine, occlusal, and vertical maxillary planes.
• Measured angles (α, β, γ) before (T0) and after (T1) treatment to calculate changes (Δ).

Main Results:

• No clinically significant overall change in the occlusal plane (OP) after CAT.
• Significant differences in OP orientation changes (Δα and Δβ) were observed between hyperdivergent and hypodivergent patients.
• Hyperdivergent patients showed greater increases in Δα (3.81°) and Δβ (1.69°) compared to hypodivergent patients.

Conclusions:

• Clear aligner therapy (CAT) does not induce significant clinical changes in the occlusal plane (OP).
• Craniofacial divergence significantly influences OP orientation changes during CAT.
• CAT may be beneficial for hyperdivergent patients, while hypodivergent patients and those with asymmetries may require alternative approaches.