Clear Aligners: Indications and Contraindications 

Outline

1. Introduction

Overview of clear aligner technology development

Importance of understanding indications and contraindications

Article objective: Provide professional selection advice for patients

2. Clear Aligner Technology Overview

Technical principles: Digital aligners and progressive tooth movement

Comparison of major brands: Invisalign, Angelalign, etc.

Key differences from traditional fixed appliances

3. Dental Conditions Suitable for Clear Aligners

3.1 Ideal Indications

Mild to moderate crowding (1-6mm space deficiency)

Mild to moderate spacing

Anterior crossbite (single tooth crossbite)

Overjet (Class II division 1)

Bimaxillary protrusion cases

Retention phase after fixed appliance treatment

3.2 Relative Indications

Mild open bite (anterior vertical problems)

Simple extraction cases (e.g., premolar extraction only)

Adult patients with stable periodontal health

Cases requiring phased treatment

4. Dental Conditions Unsuitable for Clear Aligners

4.1 Absolute Contraindications

Severe skeletal malocclusions

Severe dental crowding (>6mm space deficiency)

Complex open bite cases

Cases requiring significant vertical control

Cases with multiple missing teeth

4.2 Relative Contraindications

Patients with highly sensitive periodontal conditions

Non-compliant patients

Cases requiring complex anchorage control

Severely rotated teeth (>45 degrees)

Children in mixed dentition phase

5. Key Clinical Assessment Indicators

Space analysis (Bolton analysis)

Alveolar bone height evaluation

Root parallelism requirements

Occlusal plane analysis

Patient compliance assessment

6. Management Suggestions for Special Cases

Clear aligners with TADs (temporary anchorage devices)

Combined clear aligner and segmental arch treatment

Pre-surgical orthodontic applications