Introduction: Clear aligners, introduced in the 1990s with the Invisalign® system, have transformed orthodontics by providing an esthetic and comfortable alternative to fixed appliances. However, questions remain regarding their effectiveness and predictability in achieving different tooth movements and specifically tooth rotation. This systematic review aimed to critically evaluate the efficiency of aligners in controlling rotational movements and to identify the factors influencing their predictability. Materials and Methods: A systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines. Electronic searches were performed in PubMed, Cochrane Library, and ScienceDirect using a PICOS-based strategy. Methodological quality and risk of bias were assessed using standardized tools (AMSTAR 2, NHLBI/NIH). Results: Studies published between 2014 and 2024 were included. After screening, 14 studies met the eligibility criteria, including prospective and retrospective cohort studies, and systematic reviews. The review revealed that accuracy of tooth rotation is moderate (≈37–60%), it can be improved with attachments and interproximal reduction, but decreases with large or rapidly staged movements. Despite some progress, rotational control remains a key clinical limitation requiring cautious planning and monitoring. Conclusion: Rotations with clear aligners are poorly predictable, particularly for canines and premolars due to limited aligner grip on rounded crowns which often requires the use of auxiliaries and overcorrection strategies. Future high-quality randomized clinical trials and standardized protocols are necessary to strengthen the evidence and improve clinical outcomes.
Background: Orthodontically induced inflammatory root resorption (OIIRR) remains one of the most significant adverse effects of orthodontic treatment, potentially compromising long-term tooth stability. Photo biomodulation (PBM), delivered through low-level laser or light-emitting diode (LED) therapy, has emerged as a biological adjunct proposed to mitigate this phenomenon by modulating cellular metabolism and promoting tissue repair. Objectives: This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of PBM in reducing orthodontic root resorption in human subjects undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment. Methods: An electronic search was conducted in PubMed, ScienceDirect, and the Cochrane Library for randomized controlled clinical trials published between January 2017 and October 2023. Studies were included if they compared PBM-assisted orthodontic treatment with conventional or placebo protocols and quantitatively assessed root resorption crater volume using three-dimensional imaging. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane RoB 2 tool, and the overall quality of evidence was evaluated through the GRADE system. Results: Five randomized controlled trials met the inclusion criteria, comprising a total of 184 participants. Two studies demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in root resorption following PBM application, while three reported no significant difference compared with controls. No adverse effects were observed. The quality of evidence was graded as moderate due to interstudy variability in irradiation parameters, wavelengths, and energy doses. Conclusions: PBM shows promising potential as a safe, non-invasive adjunct to limit orthodontically induced root resorption. However, the heterogeneity of existing protocols precludes definitive clinical recommendations. Standardized, high-quality randomized trials are needed to determine optimal dosimetry and confirm PBM’s preventive and reparative role in OIIRR management.
This case report details the treatment of a skeletal Class III malocclusion using a combination of orthodontic aligners and orthognathic surgery. The patient presented with skeletal class III,anterior open bite,shifting of the mandible,mandibular prognathism, maxillary deficiency.The treatment plan involved, presurgical orthodontic alignment using clear aligners, followed by bimaxillary orthognathic surgery to correct jaw discrepancies. Postoperative phase included 2 sets of refinement aligners. The outcomes demonstrated significant improvements in occlusal function, facial aesthetics, skeletal alignment, highlighting the efficacy of integrating clear aligners with orthognathic surgery in managing complex skeletal malocclusions. This approach offers a viable alternative to traditional fixed appliances, providing enhanced aesthetic and functional results.
Maxillary lateral incisor agenesis is a common dental anomaly with significant esthetic and functional repercussions. This case report describes a 17-year-old female patient presenting with bilateral agenesis of the maxillary lateral incisors (teeth 12 and 22), managed through orthodontic treatment using the Roth technique with space opening, followed by implant-prosthetic rehabilitation. The treatment outcome demonstrated a significant improvement in esthetics and function. The discussion compares possible therapeutic approaches: space closure versus space opening, and implant-supported versus resin-bonded bridge rehabilitation.
Aim and Background: This systematic review aimed to investigate the efficacy of photobiomodulation (PBM) on alleviating orthodontic pain. Review Methods: An extensive electronic search for randomized control trials via Medline (via PubMed), The Cochrane Controlled Clinical Trials Register, and Science Direct up to October 15, 2023 was done. Hand searching was performed for relevant journals. Reference articles were retrieved and exported to Zotero software. The risk of bias was assessed using Version 2 of the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomized trials (RoB 2). Results: A total of 8 articles were considered for systematic review. Most of the studies arrived at the consensus that photobiomodulation (PBM) indeed reduces the pain associated with orthodontic treatments. Conclusion: The synthesis of available evidence in our analysis reveals a substantial body of research suggesting a positive effect of PBM on reducing orthodontic pain. However, the existing variations in PBM parameters, and outcome measurements emphasize the necessity for more standardized approaches in future investigations.
Improving facial aesthetics is a major reason why patients with class II division 1 malocclusion look for orthodontic therapy. Two-phase approach that includes functional jaw orthopaedics as well as fixed orthodontic treatment is one of various techniques available to treat Class II malocclusions. The following case report describes a young growing female patient with a Class II Division 1 malocclusion. In the first stage, the patient was treated using Andresen activator for growth modification and correction of her overjet, overbite and profile. Then, fixed orthodontic appliance was used in the second phase, to ensure well-aligned arches and improve aesthetic and function.
Maxillary lateral incisors agenesis (MLIA) is a common dental anomaly often managed through space opening to accommodate prosthetic replacement. This approach integrates orthodontic and prosthodontic techniques to restore function and aesthetics. This article explores advancements in space opening treatment, with an emphasis on prosthetic rehabilitation using implant and bridge, and highlights the role of digital dentistry in improving outcomes. Recent evidence-based studies provide insights into the clinical decision-making process and long-term success rates.
Impaction of maxillary permanent central incisors is not a frequently reported case in dental practice, but its treatment is challenging because of its importance to facial esthetics. Early detection of such teeth is most important if complications are to be avoided. We report a case of a 14-year-old male with impacted maxillary central incisors. After correct planning of the case, the impacted central incisors were pulled using a combined approach with surgical exposure and the application of an orthodontic force, restoring the patient's function and aesthetics, with good preservation of the supporting structures.
Distalization is a common orthodontic technique used to address Class II malocclusions, particularly those where there is an overjet due to maxillary protrusion. It’s performed to correct average to moderate class 2 malocclusions (<3mm) by retracting the maxillary teeth. This technique should be preferred in patients presenting a class II malocclusion due to maxillary protrusion or in adult patients undergoing compromise treatment. The following case report describes an adult female patient with class II subdivision in the left side treated by clear aligner (invisalign) by distalization and class II elastics. Sequential distalization protocol was used starting with the second molar, once the second molar has moved two-thirds of the desired distance, the first molar is distalized, followed by the premolars and canines. Finally, the four incisors are retracted to complete the treatment.
Anterior open bite is a complex malocclusion that often requires comprehensive treatment due to its multifactorial etiology and high relapse potential. Conventional treatment options such as orthognathic surgery or extraction therapy may have limitations. Recent advancements in skeletal anchorage have introduced miniscrews as a minimally invasive and reliable alternative. This case report illustrates an 18-year-old female with sagittal skeletal Class II pattern, hyperdivergent facial type and class I molar and end-on Class II canine relationship, with an anterior open bite. The treatment plan consisted of using miniscrews placed bilaterally in the posterior maxilla to facilitate molar intrusion. A transpalatal arch was used to maintain transverse stability during the intrusion phase. The approach resulted in effective molar intrusion, closure of the open bite, and an improved facial profile.
Aim and background: This systematic review aimed to investigate the efficacy of photobiomodulation (PBM) on the acceleration of orthodontic tooth movement (OTM). Review methods: An extensive electronic search for randomized control trials via Medline (via PubMed), The Cochrane Controlled Clinical Trials Register, and Science Direct up to October 15, 2023 was done. Hand searching was performed for relevant journals. Reference articles were retrieved and exported to Zotero software. The risk of bias was assessed using Version 2 of the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomized trials (RoB 2). Results: A total of 14 articles were considered for systematic review. Most of the studies arrived at the consensus that photobiomodulation (PBM) indeed accelerates the pace of tooth movement and significantly diminishes the time required for achieving proper tooth alignment. Conclusion: The synthesis of available evidence in our analysis reveals a substantial body of research suggesting a positive effect of PBM on accelerating tooth movement. However, the existing variations in PBM parameters, and outcome measurements emphasize the necessity for more standardized approaches in future investigations.
Background: Aligners, commonly used in orthodontic treatments, have shown varying degrees of effectiveness depending on the type of tooth movement required. This systematic review will outline recent findings and updates regarding the predictability of aligners in incisor extrusion and molar intrusion movements. Haut du formulaire. Objective: The purpose of this study was to systematically review the literature and evaluate the predictability of clear aligners in incisor extrusion and molar intrusion movements based on the available evidence. Materials and Methods: A total of three databases (Pubmed, Sciences Direct and Google Scholar) were searched until March 2023, in addition to a manual search in the following journals: the American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, The Angle Orthodontist, and the European Journal of Orthodontics. Finite elements studies assessing the ability of aligners in achieving incisor extrusion and molar intrusion movements published during the last 10 years in English were eligible to be selected. Study selection and data extraction were undertaken independently by two reviewers. Risk-of-bias (RoB) assessment was evaluated using the Methodological Quality of Single Subject Finite Element Analysis. The reporting of this review was based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Results: Four pertinent articles were incorporated into the analysis, all of which are finite element studies. Among these, three studies assessed the efficacy of aligners in achieving incisor extrusion, while one solely examined their predictability in molar intrusion. The risk of bias was categorized moderate in all studies. All these studies have agreed that attachments are essential for achieving incisor extrusion and molar intrusion movements. In fact, the position of the attachment has a greater influence on the amount of movement than its shape. Conclusion: The use of attachments has proven to be crucial for successfully achieving vertical movements with aligners. Horizontal rectangular palatal attachments are essential for incisor extrusion, while a combination of buccal and palatal attachments is necessary for molar intrusion.
The primary motivation for individuals with deep-bite malocclusion seeking orthodontic treatment is the improvement of aesthetics, occlusion, and functions. Deep bites can be treated by the intrusion of anterior teeth and the extrusion of the posterior teeth, or both, according to the exposure of the incisors in the smile. In this case report, we present the treatment of a female patient with a deep-bite malocclusion. This paper describes the clinical and radiographic changes with orthodontic treatment using Invisalign clear aligners and their effectiveness to normalize the overjet and overbite and enhance both aesthetics and functions.
This report describes a patient with Vertical Maxillary Excess without open bite in whom surgical orthodontic treatment to reduce lower facial height remarkably improved function and facial esthetics. The patient was a 22-year-old male whose main concern was crowding and temporomandibular joint clicking sounds. The clinical and radiological findings led to the diagnosis of Vertical Maxillary Excess with a mild skeletal class II malocclusion. The proposed treatment plan comprised a bimaxillary surgery without premolar extractions. LeFort I osteotomy was planned to reposition the maxilla superiorly by 7–8 mm. This surgery was combined with a bilateral sagittal split osteotomy for mandibular anterior derotation to adjust the mandible to the occlusal and anteroposterior change. Postoperatively, the mandibular plane angle (GoGn-SN) was decreased by 4° and skeletal class I was achieved (ANB, 4°). In addition, lip incompetence was corrected and the excessive gingiva exposure upon smiling was significantly improved. The patient was satisfied with the treatment result and reported the temporomandibular joint clicking sounds disappearing after surgery.
L‘interception de la classe II est un des plus beau challenge orthodontique. En effet la réussite du traitement est tributaire du résultat esthétique et fonctionnel. Entre cas cliniques et publications scientifiques nous essayerons de présenter et de valoriser notre approche.
Enhancing aesthetics, occlusion and functions is a primary motivation for individuals with open-bite malocclusion seeking orthodontic treatment. Open-bite malocclusion, characterized by a lack of vertical overlap of the anterior teeth, can be effectively treated with a combined surgical and orthodontic approach. In this case report, we present the treatment of a male patient with an open-bite malocclusion and a skeletal class II. Initially, the patient underwent a presurgical phase where fixed orthodontic appliance was bonded to achieve well-aligned arches, then came the maxillary impaction to normalize the overjet and overbite and enhance both aesthetics and functions. Keywords: Skeletal Class II, Open-Bite Malocclusion, Orthodontic Treatment, orthognathic surgery, Maxillary Impaction.
Amelogenesis imperfecta refers to a group of hereditary diseases that affect dental enamel, often leading to a wide range of clinical manifestations and aesthetic concerns. This case report describes a female patient diagnosed with amelogenesis imperfecta associated with a skeletal open bite. The treatment approach was multidisciplinary. Periodontal therapy was initiated, followed by orthodontic treatment using brackets on temporary crowns to expand and coordinate the maxillary and mandibular arches. Subsequently, orthognathic surgery, including a LeFort I osteotomy and genioplasty, was performed. The fixed prosthodontic rehabilitation performed with metal-ceramic crowns was the last step of the treatment. The final result was both functionally and esthetically satisfactory for the patient.
Enhancing aesthetics, occlusion and functions is a primary motivation for individuals with open-bite malocclusion seeking orthodontic treatment. Open-bite malocclusion, characterized by a lack of vertical overlap of the anterior teeth, can be effectively treated using anterior vertical elastics. It’s a common, non-surgical orthodontic approach to correct open-bite issues. In this case report, we present the treatment of a male patient with anterior open-bite malocclusion. Initially, the patient underwent a lingual frenectomy followed by an active and passive phase of swallowing rehabilitation by wearing a nocturnal lingual envelope (NLE). Subsequently, a fixed orthodontic appliance was bonded to achieve well-aligned arches, normalize the overjet and overbite with the use of anterior vertical elastics (AVE) and enhance both aesthetics and functions.
Background: With the rising popularity of clear aligners therapy, understanding the incidence and severity of apical root resorption in patients following treatment with both clear aligners and fixed appliances becomes increasingly crucial. The purpose of this systematic review of the literature is to compare the incidence/severity of root resorption in patients treated with clear aligners and fixed appliances and to determine the main factors responsible of the variation in root resorption between these two systems. Materials and Methods: Pubmed, Cochrane, ScienceDirect and Google Scholar were used to search for systematic reviews, randomized or non-randomized controlled trials, cohort studies and case-control studies conducted in humans and published within ten years (since 2014 until 2023). AMSTAR 2, RoB 2 and NHLBI, NIH were used to assess the risk of bias of the included studies. Results: In total, 21 articles (human studies): 10 systematic reviews, 7 cohort studies (6 retrospective and 1 prospective), 3 randomized controlled trials and 1 case-control study were included. Conclusion: The majority of the studies showed that the incidence/severity of apical root resorption is less in clear aligners compared to fixed appliances treated patients. However, these studies are characterized by different baseline malocclusions, treatment durations/modalities, study designs flaws, inconsistency in outcomes measurement/calculation. Future high-quality clinical trials are needed to further support these results.