Physiochemical and mechanical characterisation of orthodontic 3D printed aligner material made of shape memory polymers (4D aligner material)

CONCLUSIONS: TC-85 demonstrates exceptional shape memory at oral temperature, improving adaptation, reducing force decay, and enabling, together with its higher flexibility, extensive tooth movement per step. Additionally, it maintains microhardness similar to thermoformed sheets, ensuring the durability and effectiveness of dental aligners.CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The 3D printed aligner material with shape memory characteristics (4D aligner) has revolutionized the orthodontic aligner field. It showed mechanical properties more suitable for orthodontic treatment than thermoforming materials. Additionally, it offers enhanced control over aligner design and thickness, while optimizing the overall workflow. It also minimizes material wastage, and reduces production expenses.PMID:38154364 | DOI:10.1016/j.jmbbm.2023.106337

Source: Journal of the Mechanical Behavior of Biomedical Materials - December 28, 2023 Category: Materials Science Authors: Islam Atta Christoph Bourauel Yasmine Alkabani Nesreen Mohamed Hoon Kimbe Abdulaziz Alhotan Ahmed Ghoneima Tarek Elshazly Source Type: research