Stability and Success of Clear Aligners in Orthodontics: A Narrative Review

Abstract

The implementation of Clear Aligner Therapy (CAT) in adult orthodontics exemplifies the integration of advanced technology in the dental healthcare sector. Representing a significant shift in modern orthodontics, CAT offers a convenient and aesthetic alternative to traditional fixed appliance treatments for mal-aligned dentition. This narrative review aims to explore the applicability of CAT, delineating its biomechanics, indications, contraindications, scope, limitations, and factors influencing long-term stability and successful outcomes. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using databases like Google Scholar, PubMed, Cereus, and the Cochrane Library. Articles were selected based on their relevance to clear aligners, without brand specificity, and covered a wide range of cases to establish CAT's scope and limitations. This review includes individual case studies, systemic reviews, comparative analyses, case reports, finite element analyses, and prospective and retrospective analyses, all contributing to a nuanced understanding of CAT's applicability and long-term treatment stability. The conclusion underscores CAT's growing acceptance in orthodontics, including its application in challenging cases, and highlights key determinants that bolster its long-term efficacy.

Clear Aligners in the Growing Patient: A Systematic Review

“…The efficacy, safety, and acceptability of aligners in this particular stage of dental development require thorough analysis. Recent research has begun to investigate the applicability of aligners in patients with mixed dentition, evaluating various aspects such as dental movement control, patient experience, and clinical outcomes [11,19]. However, the literature on this topic is still fragmented and requires a systematic review to synthesize the available evidence [9,20].…”