THE RELIABILITY OF CLEAR ALIGNERS IN RESOLVING CROWDING

Abstract

Aim of the study Despite advancements in clear aligner therapy, there are still limitations regarding the predictability of tooth movements. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate how reliably clear aligners can address dental crowding. Materials and methods This retrospective study evaluated the orthodontic treatment outcomes using clear aligners in a sample of 60 patients. The study included healthy adults ages 18 to 60 who had non-extraction cases of crowding. Data were collected on their demographic details and clinical variables, with statistical analyses performed to compare initial and final crowding measurements and assess the need for orthodontic refinement. Chi-square tests and logistic regression were used to analyze the data and determine significant associations, if any. Results The predictability of clear aligners in resolving crowding was 65% (n = 39). Overall, the initial mean crowding of 4.13 mm (SD = 2.0) was reduced to a final mean crowding of 0.66 mm (SD=1.1). Patients who required an interproximal reduction (IPR) alone or an IPR with arch expansion were 2.38 times more likely to need refinement compared to those who had arch expansion only. This effect is statistically significant (p-value = <0.01). Conclusions Although the level of crowding had significantly decreased by the end of the study, the crowding was not fully resolved without additional refinements. Future studies should explore targeted interventions and have longer follow-up periods to achieve the complete resolution of crowding.

Keywords

• clear aligners
• dental crowding
• orthodontic refinement
• interproximal reduction
• arch expansion