Design features of aligners for treatment of anomalies in position of individual teeth with signs of demineralization

BACKGROUND: Currently a rising trend in dental anomalies is being recorded in Russia and worldwide. A combined pathology an enamel demineralization foci with the underlying dentofacial anomalies is common. Search for modern methods of treatment in this situation requires scientific research and practical implementation. AIM: To develop technology to improve the structure of aligners for the treatment of abnormal position of individual teeth with focal enamel demineralization, by digital modeling of additional microreservoirs in their structure for targeted delivery of remineralizing agent in the zone of pathological focus. METHODS: The study utilized plates for laboratory manufacture of aligners, liquid photopolymer material, software for modeling orthodontic treatment stages, an intraoral 3D scanner, a vacuum former, a stereolithographic 3D printer, intraoral 3D scanning, 3D reservoir modeling using Autodesk Meshmixer software (USA), 3D modeling of orthodontic treatment stages, 3D printing of STL files (stereolithography), and vacuum thermoforming of aligners. RESULTS: A conceptually new type of orthodontic device with a combined mechanism has been developed allowing for simultaneous correction of individual teeth position anomaly and reduction of the risk of focal demineralization through its systemic prevention and treatment. A notable sign of the proposed aligners is the creation of a microreservoir for the targeted delivery of remineralizing agents to high-risk zone (enamel demineralization, non-carious lesions) using mathematical modeling and digital manufacturing algorithm. CONCLUSION: In the study, a methodology for manufacture of aligners has been developed with microreservoirs in their structure using digital modeling algorithm for targeted delivery of remineralizing agents to the affected area in patients with individual tooth position anomalies combined with hard tissue damage. Further clinical studies can help assess the effectiveness of these structures in various clinical situations.