TY  - JOUR
T1  - Evaluation of Compatibility of Different Attachment Types Used in Orthodontic Clear Aligners with Electron Microscopy
A1  - Mahir Cengiz
A1  - Deniz Yucel
A1  - Umut Elboga
JF  - Annals of Orthodontics and Periodontics Specialty
JO  - Ann Orthod Periodontics Spec
SN  - 3062-3405
Y1  - 2023
VL  - 3
IS  - 1
DO  - 10.51847/zKQ2SlWRDj
SP  - 90
EP  - 103
N2  - The effectiveness of clear aligner therapy depends significantly on the precision of force delivery through the aligner–attachment interface. This study aimed to evaluate the microscopic compatibility between different orthodontic clear aligner materials (Duran+ and Zendura FLX) and attachment designs (rectangular and optimized) using scanning electron microscopy (SEM).  Fifty-six samples were divided into four groups: rectangular attachments with Duran+ aligners (n = 14), rectangular attachments with Zendura FLX aligners (n = 14), optimized attachments with Duran+ aligners (n = 14), and optimized attachments with Zendura FLX aligners (n = 14). Attachments were bonded to bovine incisors using standardized protocols. Clear aligners were thermoformed at 220 °C for 40 s. Cross-sectional samples were analyzed using SEM at 250× magnification. Gap measurements were taken at seven points for rectangular attachments and five points for optimized attachments.  Gap measurements ranged from 14.75 ± 1.41 µm to 91.07 ± 3.11 µm. Zendura FLX demonstrated significantly better adaptation than Duran+ with rectangular attachments (42.10 ± 1.07 µm vs. 44.52 ± 1.51 µm, p < 0.001). Optimized attachments showed better overall adaptation than rectangular attachments. All combinations showed regional variation with the largest gaps at gingival borders (67.18–91.07 µm) and the smallest at flat buccal surfaces (14.75–20.98 µm).  Perfect adaptation was not achieved with any material–attachment combination tested. Material selection and attachment design significantly influence microscopic adaptation, with multi-layer materials and optimized geometries showing superior performance. These findings provide mechanical explanations for clinical limitations in clear aligner therapy.
UR  - https://aopsj.com/article/evaluation-of-compatibility-of-different-attachment-types-used-in-orthodontic-clear-aligners-with-el-vam98shfs2f9gmw
ER  -