Category Archives: Treatment Techniques

Dimples – Where to place

Definition, Use, and Information Definition: A dimple is a small depression made in the plastic of the clear aligner. The dimple increases pressure on a tooth to help make desired tooth movements or to increase retention of the aligner. Uses: Dimples can be used for: Rotations Minor tipping movements Buccal/lingual movements For adding retention to the […]

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 […]