How to reduce attachments flashes (AFs) during clear aligner therapy (CAT)?
- Dr Mo Almuzian
- May 2, 2021
- 1 min read
HOW AFs MIGHT AFFECT CAT?
AFs affect aligners fitness
Fitness of aligners is crucial for CAT efficiency
Poor aligners fitness compromises CAT outcomes
The above picture is a courtesy to Dr J Castronova
WHAT ARE THE SUGGESTED SOLUTIONS?
Avoid using attachments!
Bond attachments then scan and plan.
Etching template as suggested by some clinician, I saw Dr J Cope using it.
I heard Dr D Walt mentioning what is called Trial-insert (see the slides below).
MY PERSONAL OPINION
I did not try option 4 but I assume it will take extra time.
I have used option 3, it is a good option, requires etching template but the AFs were reduced significantly.
We are currently researching option 2 in an in-vitro study.
WHAT DO YOU THINK?
Minimizing composite flashes is crucial for patient comfort and hygiene during clear aligner treatment. For practitioners interested in streamlining their own clinical documentation or laboratory workflows, efficient digital management tools can provide useful frameworks for organizing patient data and operational protocols.