Effectiveness of Clear Aligner Therapy in Orthodontic Management for Children with Mixed Dentition: A Scoping Review.

Aims and background: Clear aligners have become a popular orthodontic treatment option due to their esthetic appeal. However, their efficacy in managing malocclusions during mixed dentition, a developmental stage involving both primary and permanent teeth, has not been fully explored. This review aims to evaluate the effectiveness of clear aligners in treating malocclusions in mixed dentition and compares them to traditional orthodontic methods such as fixed appliances and myofunctional devices. Methods: A scoping review was conducted using Arksey and O'Malley's framework and the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses scoping review (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines. Studies examining the use of clear aligners in mixed dentition were retrieved from four major databases. The inclusion criteria focused on studies that compared clear aligners with other orthodontic treatments. A total of 21 relevant studies were included in the analysis. Results: The reviewed studies primarily assessed Invisalign® clear aligners for treating class II, open bite, and dental crowding in mixed dentition. Treatment durations varied between 6 and 18 months. While clear aligners were effective in correcting dentoalveolar issues, their impact on skeletal changes was less significant compared to traditional methods like the twin block appliance. The clear aligners provided notable benefits in terms of patient comfort, compliance, and esthetics. Conclusion: Clear aligners present a viable treatment option for correcting malocclusions in mixed dentition, particularly for dentoalveolar adjustments. However, for skeletal changes, traditional appliances like fixed devices may be more effective. Clear aligners should be considered for patients seeking esthetic and comfortable orthodontic treatment. Clinical significance: Clear aligners offer a noninvasive, comfortable, and esthetic solution for orthodontic treatment in mixed dentition. They can be particularly beneficial for mild to moderate malocclusions, though careful patient selection is crucial for optimal outcomes. How to cite this article: Rai K, Kote AR, Priya K,