Software-Supported Treatment Planning with the Use of Clear Aligners and Multi-Bracket Appliances at the Same Time – Practical Examples and Potentials in Orthodontics

Over the last two decades, orthodontics has been focussing more on the development and use of appliances and less on the diagnostic, pragmatic, and individualised needs of patients. During this time, the variety of treatment options has increased considerably, and the decision in favour of a particular appliance is often made on an empirical, emotional, and highly subjective basis. The reasons for this range from training and the university to the location of the practices to financial resources and advertising influences. Nevertheless, the patient’s individual needs should always be taken into consideration when making a decision. Clear aligner treatments currently dominate in many practices. But are these alone are always the best option? 

Materials and methods: In our practice, we have analysed the recent developments in treatment devices, taking into account factors such as staff shortages, economic constraints, patient wishes, and new products. 

Results: Our practice is increasingly moving towards digitalisation, and production is increasingly being carried out in the laboratory. The integration of various software add-ons has opened up opportunities for both practitioners and patients to improve the planning and outcome of treatment. Despite these promising developments, it can still be challenging to deviate from established treatment methods. This is why hybrid treatments – a combination of different techniques (e.g. buccal brackets, lingual brackets, and/or aligner at the same time or in succession) – are increasingly being used. 

Conclusion: This paper looks at how innovative digital products can help to simulate the vision of optimised treatment and break new ground, especially with regard to hybrid planning and treatment. The application of a hybrid platform for simulation and treatment planning will be presented and illustrated using case studies. These findings will open up promising prospects for orthodontic practice.