Ramp up your aligner practice

Orthodontists everywhere are looking for ways to “ramp up” their practices with new technologies and services. If you’re one of these doctors, take a deeper look at the products you’re using. I have tried several aligner options over the past 8 years to move my practice to the next level, and reduce workflow-related stress. I also was looking for control and flexibility for effective aligner planning and educational opportunities that would improve treatment planning with minimal investment.

Software: When choosing an aligner brand, finding one that simplifies the user experience is essential. One way of doing this is through the use of CBCT and software. Since the arrival of an effective software program, I have spent minimal time approving cases and can use 3D controls that allow me to change attachment size, shape, and location within a few minutes. I can make these changes without requiring another revision by the technician, and I can have the design team closely follow my clinical preferences when making my adjustments. For efficient diagnosis and patient education, the aligner workflow allows for multiple setups (and can be requested at no extra charge).

Attachments: Let’s face it, consistent placement of attachments can be tricky, so many of us assign the aligner bonding appointment to our best and most proven assistants.¹ For exceptional results, we need a template with defined attachment wells that are easy to fill. Most importantly, one should be able to see any voids in the well, which prevents voids in the final attachment. The template should give me the confidence to assign bonding appointments to any assistant in the office, which significantly improves our efficiency.

Materials: The fact is that not all aligner materials are equal. For aligners, you want the best fit to enable treatment predictability and engaging of attachments, and for expansion movements and final stages of treatment, rigidity is imperative. Of course, patients appreciate stain resistance for optimal esthetics during the treatment process.

I have chosen Spark™ Clear Aligners for all of the above reasons. From Real-Time Approver software and Spark Attachment Template to workflow and TruGen™ and TruGenXR™ materials, this aligner brand has reduced workflow-related stress and provided increased profitability. I also appreciate how this aligner treatment gives the doctor the control and flexibility to make the treatment effective, and it offers incentives with its educational tracks that will improve treatment planning with minimal investment.

***    The opinions expressed are those of Dr. Coreil as a paid consultant to Ormco. Ormco is a medical device manufacturer and does not dispense medical advice. Clinicians should use their own professional judgment in treating their patients. Individual patient results may vary.