The Impact of a 3D Imaging Tool on Reducing Gum Recession During Orthodontic Treatment With Aligners

The Impact of a 3D Imaging Visualization Tool for Orthodontic Treatment With Aligners in Reducing Periodontal Recession Occurrence

This study investigates whether using 3D imaging technology (Cone Beam Computed Tomography or CBCT) for orthodontic treatment planning with aligners can reduce the risk of gingival recession in adult patients seeking dental arch expansion. Many aligner treatments involve expanding the dental arches to address issues like crowding and "black corridors," but this can sometimes lead to gum recession.

The research compares two groups of patients: one group will have their treatment planned using CBCT, which allows for detailed 3D visualization of the teeth and bone structure, while the other group will follow a conventional 2D treatment plan. The goal is to see if the 3D tool helps prevent gum recession and other periodontal problems like bone thinning, as well as to assess the impact on other factors like upper airway dimensions.

The study is a randomized controlled trial with 40 participants. It will track changes in gum health, bone structure, and airway volume over the course of treatment. The researchers aim to find out if the advanced imaging tool provides significant benefits compared to traditional planning methods.

Inclusion Criteria:

• more than 18years old
• requesting an orthodontic treatment with aligners
• dental class I or slight class II or III
• presence of black corridors

Exclusion Criteria:

• agenesis or extraction except for the 3rd molars
• need of extraction for the orthodontic treatment-need for orthognathic surgery
• generalized unilateral, bilateral, or anterior crossbite
• active periodontal disease
• presence of severe recession (≥2mm)
• furcation involvement
• absence of keratinized tissues
• smoker > 10c/day-auto-immune disease or immunocompromised patients
• uncontrolled diabetes
• use of steroids or biphosphonates-local or systemic infection (medical treatment needed prior to entrance to the study)
• pregnancy
• alcoholism or chronically drug abuse