History
The evolution of orthodontics has led to significant advancements in dental treatments, particularly with the introduction of clear aligners as an alternative to traditional braces. Over the years, orthodontists have worked to improve the precision and comfort of aligners, providing patients with more discreet and effective options for achieving straighter teeth.

Difference between aligners and braces
One of the key distinctions between aligners and braces is the material used and the method of tooth movement. Braces are typically made from metal brackets and wires that are bonded to the teeth, while clear aligners are made from a transparent plastic material that fits snugly over the teeth. Aligners are removable, offering greater convenience and flexibility compared to braces, which are fixed in place for the duration of treatment.

How plastic moves the tooth
Clear aligners work by applying gentle, consistent pressure on the teeth, gradually shifting them into the desired position. The plastic material of the aligners is designed to fit precisely over the teeth, and as the aligner is worn, it applies pressure to specific areas, moving the teeth in small increments. This process is highly customized based on the patient’s individual dental needs.

Force, Anchorage, Attachments, Pressure Points
Understanding the principles of force and anchorage is essential in orthodontic treatment with clear aligners. Properly applied force ensures that teeth move effectively, while anchorage is used to prevent unwanted tooth movement. Attachments are small, tooth-colored components bonded to the teeth, helping the aligners grip the teeth more effectively and enabling more complex tooth movements. Pressure points are specific areas where the aligners apply concentrated force, leading to the desired tooth movement.

Elastics
In some cases, the use of elastics may be required in conjunction with clear aligners to correct bite issues or improve tooth alignment. These small rubber bands are strategically placed to provide additional force, enhancing the effectiveness of the aligners in addressing specific dental concerns.

Limitations
While clear aligners offer many advantages, there are certain limitations to consider. They may not be suitable for complex orthodontic cases, such as those involving significant tooth rotation or large gaps between teeth. In these situations, traditional braces may still be the more effective treatment option.

Case selection: arch length discrepancy
One important factor in choosing between clear aligners and other orthodontic treatments is arch length discrepancy. If there is not enough space in the dental arch to accommodate all the teeth, aligners may not be the best option, as they require sufficient room to apply pressure to the teeth for effective movement.

Case selection: vertical discrepancy
A vertical discrepancy occurs when the upper and lower teeth do not align properly in the vertical dimension. Clear aligners can address mild vertical discrepancies, but more severe cases may require traditional braces for better control and more predictable results.

Case selection: transverse discrepancy
In cases of transverse discrepancy, where the upper and lower arches are not aligned side to side, clear aligners may be less effective in correcting the issue. This type of malocclusion often requires a more comprehensive treatment approach, such as braces, to achieve the desired result.

Case selection: anteroposterior discrepancy
Anteroposterior discrepancy refers to an imbalance between the front and back teeth, commonly seen in cases of overbite or underbite. Clear aligners can be effective for mild to moderate cases of anteroposterior discrepancy, but more severe cases may need braces for optimal correction.