ATTACHMENTS IN CLEAR ALIGNER THERAPY – A REVIEW

Abstract

Clear aligners are transparent, removable orthodontic appliances designed to straighten teeth discreetly and comfortably. They offer an aesthetic alternative to traditional braces, using a series of custom-made trays to gradually move teeth into alignment. Attachments play a critical role in enhancing the effectiveness and biomechanics of clear aligner therapy (CAT), enabling controlled and predictable tooth movements which would otherwise be challenging with aligners alone. These small, tooth-colored composite additions improve aligner retention and serve as force transducers to facilitate complex movements such as rotation, extrusion, and root torque. Different shapes and types including optimized designs tailored through digital planning allow for individualized treatment strategies. While attachments improve clinical outcomes, they may compromise aesthetics and require careful bonding and maintenance. This article will discuss about all the attachments types that we commonly use with aligner treatment that which help in achieving the orthodontic tooth movement.