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Comparison of Different Debonding Techniques of Clear Aligner Attachments

NCT07259642 · Status: COMPLETED · Phase: NA · Type: INTERVENTIONAL · Enrollment: 32

Last updated 2025-12-02

No results posted yet for this study

Summary

The goal of this clinical trial is to compare two different methods for removing clear aligner attachments from tooth surfaces and to evaluate the pain levels and removal times associated with each method. The main questions this study aims to answer are:

* Does the use of an adhesive removal plier result in less pain compared to using a tungsten carbide bur?
* Is there a difference in the time required to remove attachments between the two methods?

In this split-mouth, randomized clinical trial, participants who have completed clear aligner treatment will undergo two different attachment removal techniques:

* Plier method: Attachments will be removed using adhesive removal pliers, followed by finishing with a tungsten carbide bur.
* Bur method: Attachments will be removed entirely using a tungsten carbide bur. Pain levels will be assessed using an 11-point Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) after each segment is treated, and the time required for each removal will be recorded. The amount of adhesive remaining on the enamel surface will also be evaluated.

This study aims to determine which debonding technique provides a faster and more comfortable experience for patients at the end of aligner treatment.

Conditions

  • Orthodontic Pain (D013850)
  • Orthodontic Patient Experience
  • Orthodontic Aligners
  • Orthodontic

Interventions

PROCEDURE

Adhesive removal plier followed by tungsten carbide bur

In this intervention, clear aligner attachments are removed using an adhesive removal plier with a controlled torquing motion. After mechanical detachment of the attachments, any remaining adhesive resin is removed using a 24-blade tungsten carbide finishing bur operated at low speed (20,000 rpm) without water cooling. This combined approach aims to minimize discomfort by reducing contact time with rotary instruments while ensuring complete adhesive removal. Pain levels are evaluated immediately after debonding each segment using an 11-point Numeric Rating Scale (NRS). Adhesive remnants are scored using a modified Adhesive Remnant Index (ARI) before bur refinement.

PROCEDURE

Tungsten carbide bur

In this intervention, clear aligner attachments are completely removed using a 24-blade tungsten carbide bur operated at low speed (20,000 rpm) without water cooling. No plier is used in this method. Pain levels are evaluated immediately after debonding each segment using an 11-point Numeric Rating Scale (NRS). This continuous rotary technique represents a conventional clinical approach for attachment removal.

Sponsors & Collaborators

  • Hacettepe University

    lead OTHER

Principal Investigators

  • Ezgi Atik, Dr. · Hacettepe University Faculty of Dentistry Department of Orthodontics

Study Design

Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
SINGLE
Model
PARALLEL

Eligibility

Min Age
18 Years
Max Age
44 Years
Sex
ALL
Healthy Volunteers
Yes

Timeline & Regulatory

Start
2024-04-01
Primary Completion
2024-12-31
Completion
2024-12-31

Countries

  • Turkey (Türkiye)

Study Locations

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Read the full study record

This page highlights key information. For complete eligibility criteria, study locations, investigator contacts, and the full protocol, visit the original record on ClinicalTrials.gov.

View NCT07259642 on ClinicalTrials.gov