What we think: the CLEAR perspective

1. Aligners are excellent for the right cases

Class I, non-extraction, mild to moderate crowding, no pure vertical movements: this remains the sweet spot. Aligners perform beautifully when movements are planned within predictable limits. Open bites can be treated effectively, but remember: the correction comes mostly from incisor extrusion, not molar intrusion.

If your ClinCheck looks like a magic show, it probably is. Plan real biomechanics, not wishful thinking.

2. The patient experience advantage is real

Less discomfort, easier hygiene, fewer emergencies, and happier patients. That combination matters. We don’t practice orthodontics in a vacuum: patient comfort and compliance are essential. When the appliance itself supports both, we pay attention.

3. Auxiliaries are not optional, they’re strategic

Aligners move teeth primarily by tipping. When you need bodily control, like canine rotation, torque, or molar distalization, auxiliaries make the plan predictable. Attachments, elastics, buttons, power arms, or precision cuts aren’t “cheats.” They’re smart biomechanics in action.

4. Refinements are normal, too many are not

Planning unpredictable movements means refinements are part of your plan, not a surprise. However, excessive refinements often point to unrealistic initial expectations. The data show that one in six aligner patients may need conversion to fixed appliances. That’s not failure, it’s leadership. Your patient hired you for results, not loyalty to plastic.

5. Periodontal patients benefit from aligners, but within limits

For minor migrations in periodontally stable patients, clear aligners are ideal. For major bodily movements, tread carefully. Control the force, coordinate with the periodontist, and prioritize health over speed.

6. Growing patients still need skeletal tools

Aligners expand primarily dentoalveolarly. If you’re aiming for true skeletal expansion, a rapid palatal expander remains the gold standard. Aligners can complement, not replace, orthopedic devices, especially for developing Class II or transverse discrepancies.

---

What we will do at The CLEAR Institute

This consensus reinforces what we’ve been teaching for years: clear aligner success comes from knowledge, not recipes. We’ll continue refining our training so dentists can:

✅ Use predictability scoring before submitting a plan: rate movements for biological feasibility and anchorage needs.

✅ Plan auxiliaries early, especially for rotation, distalization, or expansion beyond tipping range.

✅ Treat open bites with intention, controlling vertical dimension and retention.

✅ Approach extraction cases realistically, choosing hybrid or fixed mechanics when needed.

✅ Manage periodontal cases conservatively, focusing on controlled, light forces.

✅ Value chair time as a clinical resource, not just a scheduling metric.

In short, we’ll keep simplifying what’s complex: because confidence comes from clarity.

---

What to look for next

Research still has work to do. We need stronger studies on:

• True treatment duration comparisons

• Long-term stability of aligner outcomes

• Skeletal effects in growing patients

• Root resorption mechanisms

• Biomechanics in periodontally compromised patients

 

At The CLEAR Institute, we track this evolving science so you don’t have to. We teach what’s proven, explain what’s emerging, and help you navigate the gray areas with confidence.

 

---

The CLEAR conclusion

Clear aligners have evolved from a cosmetic option to a reliable orthodontic tool. But like any tool, success depends on how you use it. This consensus study proves what we’ve always believed: aligners are predictable, efficient, and enjoyable to work with when you respect their biomechanics.

No magic. No cookbook. Just principles, planning, and passion for great dentistry.

Because at the end of the day, confidence with clear aligners is closer than it appears.

It's time to Make the MOVE.