In this article, we will go over Clear Aligner Attachment FAQs & Recommendations
Attachments are needed to perform specific movements. The attachments allow the aligner tray to grip or grab onto the tooth to help achieve the planned movements. Buttons are applied with a Template tray.
Q: When and why are attachments used?
A: Rotations over 28 degrees, Any Extrusion, Angulation (tipping) greater then 7 degrees, Intruding more than 4 teeth in the same arch over 0.5mm
Q: What type of attachments could be found in the treatment?
A: Vertical or horizontal rectangular attachments depending on the case needs. Our protocols involve attachment to help intrusion, extrusion, rotations, and space closure movements.
Q: Can use aligner 1 to place the attachments?
A: No, because there is movement on that aligner, the attachment template must be used to bond the attachments because it was built from the original position of the teeth.
Q: What type of composite should I use for the attachments?
A: We do not recommend any specific brand as long is packable composite and not flowable, flowable composite is more susceptible to wear and tear.
Standard recommendations for attachment placement
- Try aligner 1 prior to placing the attachment to disregard any fitting issues.
- If there are too many attachments on the template, sectioning the template can help to avoid misplacing one during the light cure process. The sectioning can be performed just between 8/9.
- Use packable composite and avoid filling out too much the attachment bubble to prevent an excess of flash*, but make sure that there is enough to be in contact with the surface.
- Remove the flash if present prior to light curing.
- Do not pull the template off aggressively, try to bend the attachment area to avoid ripping off the attachment from the tooth surface.
- Remove flash if present after the light-curing process. Excess of it can interfere with the fitting of the tray.
YouTube Video – How to Place Attachments
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yWL0M7VlXMQ
Please email Customer Support at designservices@3shape.com or Chat with us for any further questions!