In this article, we will go over the Clear Aligner attachments FAQs and recommendations
Attachments: Attachments are used to enable specific tooth movements that aligners alone cannot achieve effectively. They provide surfaces for the aligner tray to grip, allowing better control and more precise movement of the teeth according to the treatment plan. Buttons may also be used in some cases, and they are typically placed either directly on the teeth or with the help of a template tray.
When and why are attachments used?
Rotations over 28 degrees.
Any Extrusion, Angulation (tipping) greater than 7 degrees
Intruding more than 4 teeth in the same arch over 0.5mm
What type of attachments could be found in the treatment?
Vertical or horizontal rectangular attachments depending on the case needs.
Our protocols involve attachment to help intrusion, extrusion, rotations, and space closure movements.
Can you use the aligner #1 to place the attachments?
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.
What type of composite should I use for the attachments?
We do not recommend any specific brand as long as it is a packable composite and not flowable; a 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 a packable composite and avoid filling out too much of 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 before 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. An excess of it can interfere with the fitting of the tray.
YOUTUBE VIDEOS:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wWdqvp94QLA
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yWL0M7VlXMQ
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