If you struggle with crooked teeth and feel self-conscious about your smile, clear or invisible aligners might be the perfect solution. Clear aligners offer a discreet and comfortable alternative to metal braces, making them popular among adults. The secret behind this innovation is the advanced science of what they are made from.1
Aligner materials have come a long way, thanks to extensive research and development. Today’s aligners are designed to be flexible, strong and visually appealing while also ensuring precise tooth movement and patient comfort. In this blog, we’ll discuss the various aligner materials for you to choose the best option for your orthodontic needs.2
Types Of Materials and How They Affect Treatment:
The choice of aligner material affects treatment results, comfort and your overall dental experience. These materials are mostly thermoplastic polymers and fall into two main categories: amorphous and semicrystalline.
- Amorphous Polymers:
- Categorised by irregular molecular structure
- Typically softer, transparent and less prone to shrinkage
- Offers better impact resistance
- Example: Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol (PETG)
- Semicrystalline Polymers:
- Contains both amorphous and crystalline regions
- Tend to be harder, opaque or translucent
- Provide strong chemical resistance and have a distinct melting point
- Example: Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)
Here’s a table outlining the primary materials used in aligners and their effects on treatment:
Material | Characteristics | Effect on treatments |
Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)
|
Can be semi-rigid or rigid with brilliant mechanical properties | Provides strength and durability to the aligners |
Polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG) | Resistant to solvents, has excellent transparency and adequate flow properties | Good for complex designs, durable and aesthetically pleasing |
Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) | Outstanding mechanical and elastomeric characteristics and chemical and abrasion resistance | Allows shape recovery, flexibility and high tear resistance |
Polymer blends (e.g., PETG/PC/TPU) | Good and improved mechanical and chemical properties | Provides sufficient and sustainable orthodontic forces |
3D printed materials (e.g., acrylonitrile plastic, polylactic acid, nylon, polycarbonates, photopolymers) | Printed using a 3D printer, biocompatible | Potential for better geometric accuracy |
The choice of material may impact your aligner treatment in several ways:2
- Force Application: Different materials may apply varying levels of force on teeth. For example, TPU provides consistent force due to its elasticity.
- Precision of Movement: Harder materials may enable more precise tooth movements, potentially enhancing treatment effectiveness.
- Aesthetics: PETG’s high transparency makes them look aesthetically pleasing and almost invisible, which is important for many patients.
- Durability: Materials like PET are recognised for their strength and durability, crucial for long-term use.
- Comfort: Softer materials or layered designs improve patient comfort during wear.
Differences Between Various Materials and Aligner Costs
Over the years the clear aligner market has expanded and diversified significantly. Although thermoplastic polymers and polymer blends remain dominant, new materials and manufacturing methods are emerging daily. This variety in materials affects both the effectiveness and cost of aligners.2
New technologies such as 3D printing are revolutionising dental aligners. 3D printing allows for highly precise aligner shapes potentially increasing treatment effectiveness and cost.2 The average aligner prices in India range between Rs. 60,000 to Rs.90,000 based on their materials.3 Research is also investigating new anti-bacterial aligner coating or materials infused with essential oils to improve oral health. Although these innovations may have higher initial costs, they could enhance oral health and be cost-effective over time.2
Conclusion
The choice of aligner material is key to the success of orthodontic treatment affecting comfort, cost and aesthetics. As technology evolves new materials will likely improve the clear aligner experience. Consult a qualified orthodontist to explore material options and make informed decisions based on your individual needs. Selecting the right material can significantly improve your treatment providing a relaxed and easy path to a beautiful smile.