Comparison of Skeletal and Dental Effects of Clear Aligner and Fixed Orthodontic Appliances

Abstract

Background: Treatment with braces helps to correct malocclusion by moving the teeth and allowing the bone to adapt. Because of their biomechanics, clear appliances have been successfully in use since early days and clear aligners have become popular because of aesthetics and comfort. They have little comparative information of their skeletal and dental effects.

Objective: To make comparisons between the skeletal and dental changes that occur with clear aligners and fixed orthodontic appliances.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of dentistry and orthodontics, Abbottabad International Dental College, Abbottabad from January 2025 to August 2025.

Methodology: A total of 130 patients (according to the WHO sample size formula) were included in the prospective comparative observational study. Patients were randomly assigned into two groups: clear aligner group and fixed appliance group.Patients were randomly allocated to either a clear aligner group or fixed appliance group. Metaphorical radiographer, dental casts and clinical records were evaluated both before and after treatment for various skeletal and dental parameters.

Results: Both techniques brought about a better alignment of the teeth. Fixed appliances were more effective at controlling in complex movements and clear aligners were more comfortable. The changes in the skeletons of both groups were very slight.

Conclusion: Both are effective and selection of treatment is dependent upon patient preferences and clinical needs.