The hybrid approach: A solution to overcome unpredictable movements in clear aligner therapy

Abstract

The clear aligner system has been radically improved in many aspects: New materials, protocols, attachments, and auxiliaries were developed to improve biomechanics. Many movements remain unpredictable, outlining the limits of clear aligners treatment, but a hybrid approach, which combines clear aligners with fixed appliance, is an efficient treatment alternative. This approach significantly reduces overall treatment time and unpredictable movements. The aim of this article is to show the application of the hybrid approach for different types of movements.

Attachments for the Orthodontic Aligner Treatment—State of the Art—A Comprehensive Systematic Review

“…There are case series published in the orthodontic literature pointing to the advantages of hybrid treatments, including the use of aligners with TAD-supported anchorage devices, tubes or segmental orthodontic appliances (3-4 brackets) [50][51][52]. In a recently published handbook for aligner treatment, such a procedure is often even advised [53].…”

Essential Attributes of Clear Aligner Therapy in terms of Appliance Configuration, Hygiene, and Pain Levels during the Pandemic: A Brief Review

“…It is also important to know that even though aligners can be taken off for a few hours, the recommended daily wear time should be at least 20 to 22 hours for maximal tooth movement [ 14 ]. Aligners are being increasingly utilized in different kinds of complex cases, and their efficiency in two-phase therapies or simple cases has been previously documented [ 15 , 16 ].…”

“…Through this communication, we would elicit the clinical nuances and considerations that make the use of clear aligner therapy in a post-COVID era plausible, at least until a vaccine or potential cure is in sight. It may also be a good idea to consider aligners in conjunction with fixed orthodontics to correct a part of the malocclusion initially or at the end to ease finishing [ 15 ].…”

“…The number of orthodontists who employ aligners as a part of two-phase therapy is increasing because of the flexibility that comes with aligners [ 15 , 35 – 37 ]. Aligners can be used at the beginning of the treatment, midtreatment, or even at the end to get an ideal finish.…”