Author Archives: support

Extractions and Clear Aligners

The content of this article was developed with Dr. Gabriel Dolci of PUSH Dental Learning. Overview When clear aligner therapy was introduced, there were limitations regarding its indications in extraction cases, specifically cases which would require major root movements or movements of larger teeth over greater distances. However, advances in the quality of aligner plastic […]

How to Use Button Cutouts with Aligners

For a downloadable PDF version of this information click here. Materials and instruments needed for button cutouts:  Phosphoric acid 35% Orthodontic resin for bonding Ceramic/plastic button for anterior teeth to preserve esthetics Metal button for posterior teeth Aligner hole punch plier Elastic band Clear aligner   For button cutouts for Class II correction, refer to the […]

How to Use Slit Cutouts with Aligners

For a downloadable PDF version of this information click here. Materials and instruments needed for slit cutouts:  Aligner slit punch plier Elastic band Clear aligner   For slit cutouts for Class II correction refer to the following: 1. Modify the upper aligner(s) to prepare for using elastics with slit cutouts in the aligner: Use an aligner […]

Overcorrection

Definition There are circumstances that may prevent a tooth from achieving its complete movement as designed in the setup. Overcorrection is a method for providing sufficient pressure on a tooth to move it into the optimal position, and commonly recommended by experienced clinicians. Uses Overcorrection is commonly needed for these types of movements: Rotations Labial-lingual […]

Antihistamines

Xyzal is a common “over the counter”(OTC) drug (antihistamine) used for allergy relief. Some animal studies have suggested that antihistamines, especially H1 blockers, can affect the osteoblastic/osteoclastic activity of bone remodeling resulting in an inhibiting of the tooth movement process, the degree of which is undetermined. With normal use as directed by the manufacturer and […]

Backtracking

Definition Backtracking is when you have a patient wear the previous aligners longer than originally planned. Often, when the teeth have gone off track, they need additional time in a previous aligner/step to move fully into position. Backtracking gives the teeth the time that they need to get back on track with treatment. Uses Indicators for when backtracking may […]

Bisphosphonates

Definition Bisphosphonates are a class of drugs that are used to treat osteoporosis and other diseases involving bone fragility and/or loss of bone mass. These drugs effect bone metabolism by inhibition of osteoclastic activity. The disruption of bone metabolism may have as small of an effect as slowing the rate of tooth movement during orthodontic treatment to […]