ClearCorrect is a premium clear aligner from the Straumann Group

Why Malocclusion Matters: Unlocking the Potential of ClearCorrect Aligners

Malocclusion, or the misalignment of teeth, is a prevalent dental issue affecting millions worldwide. This condition ranges from minor alignment irregularities to complex cases that can impact oral health, function, and aesthetics. The emergence of clear aligners has revolutionized how dental professionals address malocclusion, providing patients with a discreet and effective alternative to traditional braces.

The collapse of Smile Direct Club underscored the risks associated with at-home orthodontic solutions and emphasized the importance of professional care.i Despite the failure of this direct-to-consumer model, it revealed a vast and unmet demand for aligner therapy, with approximately 65,000 patients in the UK left without support.ii This event presents a significant opportunity for dental practices to offer supervised, high-quality aligner treatment, meeting the growing need for reliable and effective orthodontic care.

The Growing Demand for Clear Aligners

The demand for clear aligners is soaring, driven by a shift in patient demographics and preferences. While orthodontic treatment has traditionally focused on younger patients, adult orthodontics has seen substantial growth in recent years. The British Orthodontic Society (BOS) reports that 76% of orthodontists observed an increase in adult patients seeking treatment, with the majority aged between 26 and 55.iii Factors such as the rise of video conferencing and increased social media visibility have heightened awareness of personal appearance, making clear aligners an attractive option.

Additionally, many adults are turning to aligners for retreatment, addressing orthodontic relapse or dissatisfaction with prior results. Research indicates that up to 12.6% of adults undergoing aligner therapy are seeking correction for previous issues.iv This growing interest highlights the potential for dental practices to tap into a broader, more diverse patient base.

The Patient-Centric Advantages of Clear Aligners

Clear aligners offer several advantages over traditional braces, making them a preferred choice for patients of all ages.

  • Discreet Appearance: Clear aligners are virtually invisible, allowing patients to maintain their natural appearance during treatment. This feature is particularly appealing to adults and professionals who prioritize aesthetics. 

  • Enhanced Comfort: Unlike braces, which use wires and brackets that can irritate soft tissues, aligners are made of smooth, custom-fitted plastic. This design minimizes discomfort and allows patients to wear them for extended periods without irritation.

  • Removability and Convenience: Aligners are removable, enabling patients to eat, drink, and perform oral hygiene tasks with ease. This flexibility encourages better compliance, leading to improved treatment outcomes.v 

  • Shorter Treatment Times: On average, clear aligners require 6–18 months for treatment, depending on the complexity of the case.vi In contrast, traditional braces typically take 18–24 months.vii This shorter duration appeals to patients seeking faster results and allows practices to treat more cases within a given timeframe.

  • Reduced Clinic Visits: Aligners require fewer adjustments compared to braces, translating to fewer in-practice visits. This not only enhances patient convenience but also improves clinic efficiency.v 

Revenue Opportunities for Dental Practices 

Clear aligners represent a significant revenue stream for dental practices.

  • Competitive Pricing: The cost of aligner treatment varies depending on case complexity and the number of aligners required. Practices can set competitive prices tailored to their local market while maintaining healthy profit margins.viii
  • Advanced Technology: Modern aligner systems include digital tools such as 3D modeling and treatment planning software.x These innovations enable practitioners to create precise treatment plans and provide patients with visual representations of their expected outcomes. This technology builds patient confidence and increases acceptance rates.xi
  • Word-of-Mouth Referrals: Patient satisfaction with clear aligner therapy often leads to positive reviews and referrals. Research shows that satisfied patients are more likely to recommend their dentist to others, creating a steady influx of new clients.ix
  • Efficient Workflow: Shorter treatment times and reduced appointments allow practices to handle more cases, maximizing revenue potential while maintaining high levels of patient care.vi

Professional Training and Support for Clear Aligners

For dental professionals new to aligner therapy, comprehensive training programs are essential. The ClearCorrect® Accreditation Course offered by the Straumann Group is an excellent option. This course provides a thorough understanding of aligner therapy, including tooth movement, biomechanics, and treatment protocols. It includes practical demonstrations, interactive sessions, and 90 days of mentoring, ensuring clinicians are equipped to handle mild to moderate cases effectively.

Conclusion: Clear Aligners as a Game-Changer for Dental Practices

Integrating clear aligners into a dental practice offers numerous benefits. Patients enjoy discreet, comfortable, and efficient orthodontic solutions, while dental professionals can leverage this growing demand to expand their patient base and increase profitability. With advanced technologies, shorter treatment times, and robust training programs available, clear aligners represent a modern, innovative approach to orthodontics.

Practices that embrace this treatment option will not only improve patient satisfaction but also position themselves as leaders in contemporary dental care.

This article was first published on The Probe and can be found here - 

https://the-probe.co.uk/blog/2024/04/malocclusion-matters