Attachments
Improved Precision for Complex Cases
Teeth attachments for clear aligners are small, tooth-colored buttons or bumps that are temporarily bonded to specific teeth during orthodontic treatment. They are made of a composite material and are designed to help the clear aligners apply more precise force to certain areas of the teeth that need more movement.
Attachments are typically not visible, as they are color-matched to the teeth, and they are removed once the treatment is complete.
Why Are Attachments Used?
These attachments help aligners grip the teeth more effectively and facilitate complex movements that may not be achievable with aligners alone.
Attachments are used to:
- Improve Tooth Movement – They provide additional leverage for moving teeth in difficult directions (e.g., rotations, extrusions, or intrusions).
- Enhance Aligners' Grip – Since aligners are smooth and fit snugly, attachments create points for aligners to "push" against.
- Correct Complex Cases – More challenging tooth movements (such as correcting deep bites, crossbites, or large gaps) often require attachments.
Interproximal Reduction
Making Space for Crowded Teeth
IPR (Interproximal Reduction) in orthodontics is a procedure where small amounts of enamel are gently shaved or sanded from the sides of certain teeth to create extra space without the need for tooth removal.This is often done to help correct crowded teeth, improve the alignment of teeth, or facilitate better movement during treatment with braces or clear aligners. The procedure is minimally invasive and is performed with specialized tools.
The amount of enamel removed is very small, and it’s usually done on teeth that are not overly visible (like the back teeth) to ensure it doesn’t affect the tooth's appearance or strength. After IPR, teeth may be polished to smooth any rough surfaces. The procedure is usually well tolerated and doesn’t cause significant discomfort.
Why Interproximal Reduction?
Interproximal Reduction (IPR) not only creates space for crowded teeth but also enhances the effectiveness of orthodontic treatment by allowing for more precise tooth movement. It can help achieve a more natural and proportional tooth shape, reducing the chances of excessive overlapping or irregular spacing.
Additionally, IPR plays a role in improving long-term bite stability by preventing teeth from shifting back after treatment. When done carefully, it preserves the overall health of the teeth, as only a minimal amount of enamel is removed. In some cases, IPR can also help correct minor bite discrepancies, such as mild overjet or overbite, making it a valuable tool in orthodontic planning.
