Clinical Research Directory
Browse clinical research sites, groups, and studies.
The Impact of a 3D Imaging Tool on Reducing Gum Recession During Orthodontic Treatment With Aligners
Sponsor: University of Liege
Summary
This study investigates whether using 3D imaging technology (Cone Beam Computed Tomography or CBCT) for orthodontic treatment planning with aligners can reduce the risk of gingival recession in adult patients seeking dental arch expansion. Many aligner treatments involve expanding the dental arches to address issues like crowding and "black corridors," but this can sometimes lead to gum recession. The research compares two groups of patients: one group will have their treatment planned using CBCT, which allows for detailed 3D visualization of the teeth and bone structure, while the other group will follow a conventional 2D treatment plan. The goal is to see if the 3D tool helps prevent gum recession and other periodontal problems like bone thinning, as well as to assess the impact on other factors like upper airway dimensions. The study is a randomized controlled trial with 40 participants. It will track changes in gum health, bone structure, and airway volume over the course of treatment. The researchers aim to find out if the advanced imaging tool provides significant benefits compared to traditional planning methods.
Official title: The Impact of a 3D Imaging Visualization Tool for Orthodontic Treatment With Aligners in Reducing Periodontal Recession Occurrence
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
18 Years - Any
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
40
Start Date
2025-09-04
Completion Date
2027-06-01
Last Updated
2026-04-07
Healthy Volunteers
No
Interventions
3D CBCT-Guided Orthodontic Treatment with Aligners
This intervention involves orthodontic treatment with clear aligners, where the treatment planning is guided by Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT). The CBCT data is integrated into the digital planning software to allow 3D visualization of teeth and surrounding bone structures. This enables precise planning of tooth movements within the bony envelope, aiming to reduce the risk of gingival recession and other periodontal complications associated with arch expansion.
conventional orthodontic treatment planning
Orthodontic treatment planning is traditionally based on two-dimensional radiographs (cephalometric and panoramic), which do not provide information about the three-dimensional position of teeth and their roots within the alveolar bone.
Locations (1)
University of Liege
Liège, Liege, Belgium