Aligner attachments

Some tooth movements are hard for a smooth plastic tray to do alone. The dentist bonds small bumps of tooth-colored material, called attachments, to certain teeth. The tray snaps over each bump and pushes on it. A review in the NIH library says the use of attachments allows for the exertion of desired force on the teeth, which is crucial for the success of clear aligner therapy. Attachments are placed with a guide tray and light, and they are polished off when treatment ends. They can trap plaque, so brush around them with care. They show a little, but they match the tooth color. Some plans also use interproximal reduction. See clear aligners and our clear aligners page.