Embracing Efficiency: My Journey with Clear Aligners
As an orthodontist with over 18 years of private practice experience, my initial encounters with clear aligner therapy in the early 2000s were far from smooth sailing. The results were often disappointing, leading me to rely on clear brackets to achieve the desired outcomes. However, I quickly learned from these setbacks and realized that aligners were not yet ready for widespread implementation in my practice. Based in Bismarck, North Dakota, where many patients had to travel long distances for appointments, I recognized the need to explore aligner treatment to reduce emergency visits and provide more convenience to my patients.
The Early Days:
Starting with aligners, I focused on treating the straightforward cases initially, knowing that I had the option to switch to braces if necessary. I even revised my informed consent to inform patients that braces might be required to achieve the desired results. Looking back, I couldn't help but find it absurd to imagine a pilot making a similar announcement to passengers during a flight. Nevertheless, this cautious approach allowed me to gradually gain experience and confidence in aligner mechanics.
Navigating Challenges:
Despite becoming more proficient in aligner treatments, I occasionally encountered frustrations when a tooth wouldn't track as expected or when the aligner fit perfectly but failed to express the desired movement. In cases where fixed appliances were needed to accelerate the movements, I found that the extra force provided the solution. However, I lacked force options with the leading aligner company I had been using for years. As a result, I would occasionally resort to fixed appliances to supplement the aligners and achieve the desired outcomes.
Discovering Spark Aligners:
In 2020, some orthodontic colleagues shared their positive experiences with Spark Aligners. Intrigued, I decided to explore this alternative aligner system. Being a longtime customer of Ormco, I was able to test Spark Aligners in my office through an unofficial A/B test. The anecdotal findings, coupled with passionate feedback from patients who switched from the leading aligner brand, convinced me to make the switch to Spark Aligners.
Positive Experiences with Spark Aligners:
Since late 2020, I have started over 600 patients with Spark Aligners, and the results have exceeded my expectations. The smooth and polished scalloped edges of Spark Aligners enhance patient comfort, and their transparency surpasses the brand I previously used. Furthermore, Spark's internal research has shown an average of 26% fewer refinements compared to the leading aligner brand. Another orthodontist friend of mine even reported a reduction in refinements of 46% using Spark Aligners. These statistics, combined with the reliable attachment template, improved fit, and excellent customer support, have made Spark Aligners a preferred choice for my practice.
Efficiency and Patient Satisfaction:
Spark Aligners have proven to be effective in treating a wide range of malocclusions, including open bites, deep bites, crossbites, and moderate to severe crowding. Even in complex cases, Spark Aligners have demonstrated their capability to handle challenging movements. The availability of TruGEN XR, a more rigid material, has been particularly beneficial in achieving predictable results and finishing movements. The recalibration of expectations for aligners was a positive shift, as subsequent refinements have become less necessary, leading to faster treatment completion.
Case Study
Case 1: Client Treated with Non-Spark Brand Aligners
To illustrate the efficiency of Spark Aligners, I compared a Spark-treated patient with one treated using the leading aligner system I previously employed. Although the cases were not exact matches, both achieved optimal aesthetic results.
However, the Spark Aligner-treated patient required fewer visits, only one refinement, and completed treatment in a significantly shorter time frame compared to the previous aligner brand case.
Case 2: Pre and Post Spark Aligner Treatment
Embracing Efficiency:
In my experience, aligner systems can effectively treat mild cases, but the true test lies in their ability to handle complex malocclusions. Spark Aligners have consistently delivered remarkable results in my practice. By providing more efficient treatment, requiring fewer refinements and visits, Spark Aligners have elevated the level of patient satisfaction and improved the workflow of my practice. The control and predictability offered by Spark Aligners have allowed me to design treatments based on experience and sound biomechanical principles, resulting in more reliable outcomes.
Choosing Spark Aligners has been a game-changer for my practice. The material quality, attachment protocols, and exceptional patient feedback have solidified my confidence in this aligner system. With Spark Aligners, I have achieved greater treatment efficiency, reduced chair time, and enhanced patient experiences. Aligners have become a reliable and effective treatment option for the majority of my patients. As orthodontists, our primary goal is quality finishes, and Spark Aligners have proven to be a reliable partner in achieving this objective. By embracing efficiency, we can design our practice and lifestyle with greater control and creativity, ultimately benefiting both ourselves and our patients.
