A survey of orthodontic clear aligner practices among orthodontists

Introduction: The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to survey orthodontic clear aligner therapy (CAT) practices among orthodontists in Australia. Methods: A pilot-tested electronic questionnaire was distributed to 434 full members of the Australian Society of Orthodontists. Questions were related to demographics, use and choice of aligners, digital treatment planning, patient selection, treatment protocols, refinements/finishing, retention, and patient-reported aligner issues. Factors regarding the decision not to provide CAT were also surveyed. Results: The response rate was 54.6%. Most orthodontists (93.13%) provided CAT, which made up 24.17% of their annual orthodontic caseload. The median percentage of initial digital treatment plans (DTP) approved without changes was 0, with 4-6 changes reported by 24.14%. Orthodontists reported a mean of 2.02 6 1.76 refinements per patient. Orthodontists were least comfortable treating patients with bilateral crossbite (71.28%) and deep overbite (62.56%). DTP challenges regarding tooth attachments and tooth posi-tions and issues regarding patient compliance with CAT wear protocols were commonly reported. More than 1 CAT system was used by most (63.92%), with in-house systems used by 21.63%. Orthodontists rarely or never (63.68%) performed premolar extraction treatment with CAT. Adjunctive interproximal reduction was reportedly mostly carried out to relieve crowding and reduce open gingival embrasures. The view that fixed appliances provide better outcomes was a major influence (71.43%) on the decision for those who did not provide any CAT. Conclusions: CAT practices among orthodontists varied. Further research is required to investigate the challenges in effective CAT provision highlighted in this survey. (Am J Orthod Dentofacial Orthop 2022;162:e302-e311)

Automated summary

This cross-sectional study surveyed orthodontic clear aligner therapy (CAT) practices among orthodontists in Australia. The majority of orthodontists provided CAT, but there were variations in their practices. The approval rate for digital treatment plans (DTP) was low, and refinements were common. Orthodontists felt least comfortable treating patients with bilateral crossbite and deep overbite. There were diverse choices of CAT systems, and the preference for fixed appliances influenced the decision not to provide CAT.