How Dr Thomas Crary Uses 3D-Printed Clear Aligner Attachments to Improve Tracking

GUEST: Thomas Crary, DDS

EPISODE DESCRIPTION: In this episode of the Orthodontic Products Podcast, sponsored by Solventum, host Alison Werner sits down with Dr Thomas Crary, a board-certified orthodontist in Minnesota, to discuss a technological shift in clear aligner therapy. They examine the transition from conventional, intraorally cured attachments to pre-formed, 3D-printed alternatives, exploring how the traditional attachment workflow has long introduced clinical unpredictability for orthodontic teams.

Drawing on his background in engineering, Crary explains why manual flash removal can compromise attachment geometry, leave behind residues, and disrupt the aligner delivery appointment. He shares his firsthand clinical experience as a pilot tester for Solventum's Clarity Precision Grip Attachments, highlighting how fully cured, pre-formed composite attachments provide a precise replica of the digital plan, leading to better tracking, enhanced durability, and a smoother experience for both the clinical team and patients.

KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THE EPISODE:

• The Unpredictability of Delivery: Traditional aligner delivery appointments are often highly unpredictable due to the manual process of filling attachment wells and managing composite flash.
• The Pitfalls of Flash Removal: Manual flash removal using a handpiece is imprecise, noisy, and can easily damage attachment geometry or leave behind invisible residue that compromises aligner fit.
• Better Tracking Accuracy: Pre-formed, 3D-printed attachments are exact replicas of the digital plan, significantly improving tooth tracking and aligner engagement for complex movements.
• Stronger Bond Interfaces: Because pre-formed attachments are fully cured out of the box, clinicians can apply firm seating pressure during bonding to create a thinner, stronger bond interface without distorting the attachment.
• Seamless Team Implementation: Transitioning to pre-formed attachments reduces chair time, eliminates the need for handpiece cleanup, and is highly favored by clinical assistants for its ease of use.

  CHAPTERS:
  03:14 - The Problem With Conventional Aligner Attachments
  05:07 - Why the Delivery Appointment Is Unpredictable
  07:09 - The True Clinical Impact of Adhesive Flash
  08:36 - How 3D-Printed Attachments Transform Bonding
  10:54 - Improving Aligner Engagement and Tooth Tracking
  13:03 - Optimizing Attachment Selection and Case Types
  14:16 - Durability, Stain Resistance, and Bond Strength Benefits
  16:57 - Implementation Tips and Team Training Nuances
  19:25 - The Core Value of Clarity Precision Grip Attachments

  ABOUT THE GUEST: Thomas Crary, DDS, is a board-certified orthodontist at Milestone Orthodontics in Minnesota.

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