CATEGORY AUSTRALASIAN DENTIST 55 CLINICAL moderate cases and even some more complex malocclusion. u Angel Aligners: Angel aligners have recently become popular in the aligner industry by almost mimicking rivals at a more affordable price. Their dual-material system – Master S and Master Control S – plays a crucial role in delivering effective orthodontic treatment. u SureSmile (Dentsply Sirona): SureSmile aligners, with their advanced digital planning tools and high-quality materials, claim to produce accurate tooth movements through precise 3D modeling and diagnostics. u ClearX 4D aligners: ClearX aligners introduced a novel technology called shape-shifting in aligners expertly crafted from smart polymers. These aligners are pre-programmed in such a way that they can adopt multiple shapes with thermal activation, thus reducing the need for frequent replacement. It is said to deliver precise and controlled movements for optimal treatment outcomes. u GRAPHY aligners: Graphy aligners have become the talk of the town ever since they invented Direct-printed aligners. The invention of the resin TC-85DAC produced by Graphy (Seoul, Korea) laid the foundation for manufacturing direct printed aligners, which is the upcoming revolution in the aligner industry. Continuous advancements in material science and the approach have become the driving force behind innovations in aligner technology, which improve patient experience and treatment outcomes. Future of orthodontics Orthodontic treatment can be customized by sequencing the tooth movement in a specific manner using specialized software. The aligner swapping frequency can be altered to modify the rate of tooth movement catering to individual bone physiology. The dental arch form, occlusion, and aesthetic preferences can also be made highly personalized. The future of clear aligners will most likely center on four main areas of innovation: 1. In-house aligners: With the plethora of materials and machines available for aligner designing and 3D printing, Orthodontists indulge in aligner fabrication in-office9, which is more profitable and a game changer. Increased competition amongst aligner companies: There is already a surge in the number of aligner companies contemplating the potential of aligner business. This gives orthodontists more options among the thriving competition in the market. 2. Integration of CBCT: The current hotspot in aligner research is combining CBCT (Fig. 2) with aligner planning. The visualization of the intricacies of root movement is lacking with the conventional aligner software can now be mitigated with CBCT integration10 (Fig. 3). 3. Price reduction: Affordability is the main shortcoming of the current aligner market. With the increase in contenders and current advancements, we can anticipate a gradual reduction in the cost of aligners. 4. Environmental concern: There is a constant effort to eliminate the number of aligners used because, from an environmental perspective, this strategy lowers the plastic load in the environment. This also means the efficacy of each aligner is improved, thereby reducing the duration of the treatment and enhancing patient compliance. One another major benefit is the decrease in expenses involved, which can make it affordable to all. The Australian clear aligner market is predicted to reach a value of USD 534.3 million by 2028, with an expected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 28.7% during the forecast period (Fig. 4). Conclusion The future of orthodontics is already here!! Digital technology has already created a huge impact in the field of orthodontics in relation to diagnosis, treatment planning and the final outcome of occlusion. “So where do we go from here?” As dental practitioners, embracing this new era requires courage – the courage to step beyond the familiar territory of brackets and wires and adopt these emerging technologies. It also demands vision, and a willingness to challenge traditional orthodontic approaches and rethink what’s possible in creating the perfect smile. u The Brackets and wires once made the teeth sway Slowly the evolution unwinds its way!! NiTi is now crying in the corner, not given a scene to play, Wondering whether conventionality is going astray, With clever AI hiding behind the screen, ready to slay, But never underestimate the electrifying Human brains’ matter called grey!! With Aligners all set to win the race And 3D printers maximise their pace, It isn’t difficult to reanalyse the maze And understand the need to plunge into the chase!! – Geoffery Hall Dr Geoffrey Hall geoff@orthoed.com.au For a complete list of references email gapmagazines@gmail.com Fig. 2: CBCT and Scanned STL file integration Fig. 3: Root movement with Invisalign pressure points Fig. 4: Source: https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/australia-clear-aligners-market-report
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