A research team at the West Virginia University School of Dentistry has introduced a groundbreaking approach to developing clear dental braces using advanced 3D printing technology.
Although clear aligners have gained popularity as an alternative to traditional metal braces over the past two decades, many orthodontists believe they still fall short of the precision and effectiveness of metal-based treatments. This new method may help close that gap.
The team utilized a 3D printer capable of handling thermoplastic materials to fabricate the aligners. By first scanning a patient’s mouth and creating a detailed dental mold, they were able to print customized aligners on-site in a streamlined process.
Thermoplastics exhibit unique properties — they become pliable at higher temperatures and harden upon cooling. This allows the aligners to be used with dental attachments while maintaining flexibility for everyday activities like brushing and flossing, thereby supporting better oral hygiene.
Unlike traditional clear aligners, the thermoplastic versions offer a greater surface area in contact with the teeth, potentially enhancing their long-term effectiveness in realigning teeth. Orthodontists can also fine-tune the aligners to meet the specific needs of each patient.
Currently, the research team is conducting evaluations to study the biomechanical performance of the new aligners. This includes analyzing the stress distribution on the teeth, periodontal ligament, and surrounding bone structures to better understand the technology’s capabilities and limitations.
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