Researchers at the West Virginia University School of Dentistry may have developed a novel strategy to create clear dental braces.
While clear aligners are sometimes used as an alternative to metal braces, the technology has only been around for about 20 years. As a result, many orthodontists believe that clear aligners still need to be improved before they can achieve comparable results to metal braces.
The researchers used a 3D printer capable of processing thermoplastics to create the clear aligners. After scanning the patient’s mouth and creating a dental mold, they were able to print the aligners on the spot.
Thermoplastic materials soften and shrink at higher temperatures, then return to their original shape and harden when cooled – allowing patients to use dental attachments at the same time and easily remove dental floss and brushing without affecting their daily oral hygiene habits.
Compared to traditional clear aligners, thermoplastic clear aligners have a larger contact surface with the teeth, which improves their ability to straighten teeth in the long term. In addition, orthodontists can customize the aligners to each patient’s individual needs.
The researchers are currently evaluating the biomechanical behavior of the new clear aligners and the stress response of the surrounding teeth, periodontal ligament, and bone to determine the limitations of the technology.
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