{"title":"Trends among orthodontists: In-office vs commercial clear aligners","authors":"Julia Poirier , Jae Hyun Park , Curt Bay","doi":"10.1016/j.xaor.2025.10.004","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.xaor.2025.10.004","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>The purpose of this study is to investigate the orthodontic practitioners’ use of in-office vs commercial clear aligners (CAs).</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>An anonymous electronic survey was distributed to a random sample of practicing members of the American Association of Orthodontists in North America, asking about CA usage and patient selections for in-office and commercial CA.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Ninety-five responses were analyzed from 2025 total surveys distributed, yielding a response rate of 4.7%. Ninety-one (95.8%) respondents used a CA system in their practice. Orthodontists preferred using CAs for mild-to-moderate crowding (96.8%) or spacing (80.9%), anterior open bite (73.4%), expansion (64.9%), and sagittal correction (64.9%). A few of them fabricated their aligners in-office (27.4%), with the most in the 36-45 age group (46.2%). Nearly half (49.5%) believed that they would increase their use of in-office CAs in the future, with the most in the 36-45 age group (65.4%). In-office aligner fabrication does increase in-office lab time (60.9%) and doctor’s treatment planning time (47.8%), but also allows for timely delivery of CAs (84.6%) and an increase in doctor control (76.9%).</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>It appears that most of orthodontists in North America are using CA therapy in their practice. Orthodontists agree that not all patients are best treated by CA therapy. Using combination therapy in challenging patients can highlight the benefits of both systems. In-office CAs may be a cost-efficient system that enhances clinician control with decreased turnaround time, producing results similar to those with fixed orthodontic appliances and commercial CAs. In-office CAs are a great option for clinicians, as the system allows for full customization of treatment and complete doctor control; this system may be used more in the future.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":72140,"journal":{"name":"AJO-DO clinical companion","volume":"6 1","pages":"Pages 5-12"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-02-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146102943","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Yi Feng, Yuxuan Wang, Shaoqin Tu, Yiting Shao, Zheng Chen, Hong Ai
{"title":"Two-phase orthodontic treatment of transverse maxillary deficiency and hyperdivergent skeletal Class II Division 2 malocclusion using a rapid maxillary expander and clear aligners in a growing patient","authors":"Yi Feng, Yuxuan Wang, Shaoqin Tu, Yiting Shao, Zheng Chen, Hong Ai","doi":"10.1016/j.xaor.2025.11.003","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.xaor.2025.11.003","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>In recent decades, clear aligner therapy, an esthetic and comfortable alternative to conventional fixed appliances, has driven substantial advancements in this treatment modality. This case report describes the treatment of a 9-year-old girl with adenoid and tonsillar hypertrophy who was treated with adenoidectomy, tonsillectomy, and rapid maxillary expansion (RME), followed by clear aligner therapy. The patient, whose chief complaint was her crooked teeth, was diagnosed with a hyperdivergent skeletal Class II, Angle Class II Division 2 malocclusion, transverse maxillary deficiency, mandibular hypoplasia, and obstructive sleep apnea. The adenoidectomy and tonsillectomy were performed to resolve the obstructive sleep apnea, whereas RME, myofunctional therapy (tongue exercises), and clear aligners were used to achieve transverse, vertical, and sagittal control. After 29 months of treatment, the final results showed a satisfactory occlusion with Class Ⅰ canine and molar relationships, proper overbite and overjet, an acceptable maxillomandibular relationship with a counterclockwise rotated mandible, and an esthetic and balanced facial profile. The treatment results remained stable at the 28-month retention follow-up. This patient demonstrates that a combined approach of RME and clear aligner therapy can be effective for treating transverse maxillary deficiency and sagittal mandibular deficiency in growing patients with a hyperdivergent skeletal pattern.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":72140,"journal":{"name":"AJO-DO clinical companion","volume":"6 1","pages":"Pages 42-57"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-02-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146102947","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Sergio Luiz Mota-Júnior , Eduardo Franzotti Sant’Anna , Oscar Mario Antelo , Ahmad Allaham , Orlando Motohiro Tanaka
{"title":"Skeletal Class II correction using Forsus appliance with miniscrew anchorage: A case report","authors":"Sergio Luiz Mota-Júnior , Eduardo Franzotti Sant’Anna , Oscar Mario Antelo , Ahmad Allaham , Orlando Motohiro Tanaka","doi":"10.1016/j.xaor.2025.11.001","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.xaor.2025.11.001","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This case report describes the orthodontic treatment of a 14 year and 2 month old male patient with skeletal Class II malocclusion, mandibular retrusion, and increased overjet. The treatment involved the use of the Forsus appliance combined with mandibular miniscrew anchorage to moderate mandibular incisor proclination and improve facial esthetics. Pre and posttreatment cephalometric measurements were analyzed to assess dentoalveolar changes. The results demonstrated successful correction of the Class II relationship, with an IMPA increase of 7°. A balanced facial profile and stable occlusion were achieved after 30 months of treatment. One-year follow-up records confirmed the stability of dental and facial outcomes. The successful treatment outcome in this patient suggests that the use of Forsus with skeletal anchorage is a reliable and effective approach for correcting Class II malocclusion.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":72140,"journal":{"name":"AJO-DO clinical companion","volume":"6 1","pages":"Pages 32-41"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-02-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146102944","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Ricardo Augusto Gonçalves Pierri , Gabriela Gonçalves Innocente , Jonas Bianchi , João Roberto Gonçalves , Luiz Gonzaga Gandini Júnior
{"title":"Twenty-year orthognathic surgery stability in a patient with temporomandibular joint internal derangement","authors":"Ricardo Augusto Gonçalves Pierri , Gabriela Gonçalves Innocente , Jonas Bianchi , João Roberto Gonçalves , Luiz Gonzaga Gandini Júnior","doi":"10.1016/j.xaor.2025.11.009","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.xaor.2025.11.009","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This case report documents a 20-year follow-up of a Brazilian male patient treated with counterclockwise maxillomandibular advancement (CCW-MMA) surgery. Initially, the patient presented with a Class I malocclusion, an anterior open bite, a hyperdivergent facial profile, and signs of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) internal derangement. Treatment followed a multidisciplinary approach that included presurgical orthodontics, TMJ management, and a comprehensive medical evaluation before the CCW-MMA surgery. At the 20-year follow-up, the patient maintained stable skeletal and occlusal outcomes with minimal dental and skeletal changes and no evidence of progressive condylar resorption<strong>.</strong> This long-term observation demonstrates that CCW-MMA surgery can provide lasting stability when TMJ conditions are properly assessed and managed before surgery. The report also highlights the value of cone-beam computed tomography superimposition techniques for monitoring postoperative skeletal changes and supporting clinical decision-making.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":72140,"journal":{"name":"AJO-DO clinical companion","volume":"6 1","pages":"Pages 70-77"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-02-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146102873","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Jianan Zhou, Siyun Chen, Gerald Voliere, Rongdang Hu
{"title":"Efficient correction of bilateral mandibular canine impactions in the midsymphyseal region with the guide rod appliance","authors":"Jianan Zhou, Siyun Chen, Gerald Voliere, Rongdang Hu","doi":"10.1016/j.xaor.2025.11.006","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.xaor.2025.11.006","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Ectopic impaction of mandibular canines significantly compromises smile esthetics and functional occlusion, posing a considerable challenge for orthodontists. This case report details the treatment of an 11-year-7-month-old boy with bilateral mandibular canine impactions, mesially and labially, in the midsymphyseal region. A guide rod appliance, consisting of a lingual arch with extension arms and traction hooks, was employed to deliver controlled traction forces. Over a 39-month treatment period, good esthetic and functional outcomes were achieved, including the alignment of the impacted canines, restoration of the mandibular anterior region, and maintenance of periodontal tissue. This report shows the clinical usage of the guide rod appliance in managing complex canine impactions and emphasizes early intervention for better outcomes.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":72140,"journal":{"name":"AJO-DO clinical companion","volume":"6 1","pages":"Pages 58-69"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-02-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146102948","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Orthodontic services in pediatric dental practices","authors":"Eric Phan , Jae Hyun Park , Curt Bay","doi":"10.1016/j.xaor.2025.11.002","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.xaor.2025.11.002","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>This cross-sectional descriptive study explores the extent to which pediatric dental practices in the United States (U.S.) offer orthodontic services, with an emphasis on practice structure, referral patterns, motivations, and the unique role of dual-trained pediatric dentist–orthodontists.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A 33-question electronic survey was distributed to the U.S. diplomates of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. Respondents were categorized into 3 groups: (1) practices without orthodontic services, (2) practices with orthodontic services, and (3) dual-trained providers. The survey examined demographic information, referral practices, reasons for offering or not offering orthodontic care, and operational models of integrated practices.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Out of 4042 valid emails, 300 responses were received (response rate = 8.0%). Most respondents practice in suburban group settings. Approximately 76.3% received orthodontic training during their pediatric residency, whereas only 3.7% were dual-trained. Among practices without orthodontic services, 87.4% do not plan to incorporate orthodontics, citing a lack of interest, training, and staff. However, 57.2% of those starting new practices expressed interest in partnering with an orthodontist. Among practices offering orthodontic services, motivations included clinical satisfaction, improved scheduling, and increased revenue. The most frequently treated conditions included crossbites, ectopic eruptions, and oral habits. Dual-trained providers typically operate both specialties concurrently, with most having completed separate residencies.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>Findings reveal significant variability in how orthodontic care is delivered or referred by pediatric dentists. Although barriers, such as insufficient training and staff availability, deter integration, many recognize the clinical and economic benefits of incorporating orthodontics. Dual-trained providers offer a unique model for comprehensive care, though limited training pathways may restrict wider adoption. Addressing training gaps and encouraging collaborative models may foster broader integration of orthodontic services in pediatric practices. Overall, the conclusions drawn are exploratory and offer a glimpse into the modern landscape of dual specialty practice in the U.S.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":72140,"journal":{"name":"AJO-DO clinical companion","volume":"6 1","pages":"Pages 13-23"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-02-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146102946","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Ioannis P. Zogakis , Chrysanthi Anagnostou , Theodoros Lillis , Adrian Becker
{"title":"How do you and I treat teeth that are impacted due to benign cysts of dental origin?","authors":"Ioannis P. Zogakis , Chrysanthi Anagnostou , Theodoros Lillis , Adrian Becker","doi":"10.1016/j.xaor.2025.11.008","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.xaor.2025.11.008","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Radicular and dentigerous cysts are benign, asymptomatic cysts of dental origin that may be accompanied by or cause the impaction of neighboring teeth. Their management is debatable considering the limited availability of definitive scientific evidence. The purpose of the present study was to poll specialists' views on the diagnosis, prognosis, and management of an exceptionally large jaw cyst associated with a deeply impacted tooth in a young patient. A large international contingent of approximately 1000 specialist orthodontists and oral surgeons was invited to complete a specially designed online questionnaire, anonymously and voluntarily. The pretreatment panoramic radiograph of the affected patient was emailed to each specialist, with a concise patient description and the 16-item questionnaire. In total, 123 specialists, 54 (43.9%) oral surgeons, and 69 (56.1%) orthodontists practicing in 17 different countries, participated in the study. The responses of the participants differed regarding the prognosis of the cystic lesion (<em>P</em> = 0.036), posttreatment vitality of the impacted tooth (<em>P</em> = 0.041), surgical procedure (<em>P</em> = 0.032), choice of site for drainage of the lesion (<em>P</em> <0.001), and likelihood of posttreatment anatomic anomalies in the further development of the impacted tooth’s root (<em>P</em> = 0.038). Consensus between orthodontists and oral surgeons was found in several aspects of diagnosis, treatment, and outcome. These findings, demonstrating perceptions stemming from the combined experience of both specialties, may be useful for improving outcomes and simplifying the treatment of similar future patients.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":72140,"journal":{"name":"AJO-DO clinical companion","volume":"6 1","pages":"Pages 24-31"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-02-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146102945","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}