Invisible orthodontics: benefits, timing and results of modern treatment

Invisible orthodontics is today one of the most advanced ways to correct bite problems and misaligned teeth, combining clinical effectiveness with discretion. At Nea Bios Dental Clinic in Rome EUR Laurentina, Dr Nihad Pljevljak uses the most innovative technologies to achieve results that are as predictable and personalised as possible.

The technology behind invisible orthodontics

Clear aligners rely on 3D design software and predictive algorithms to plan every tiny movement of the teeth. A digital intraoral scan creates a precise three-dimensional model of the teeth, so that the final result of treatment can be seen in advance.

The material used, usually a medical-grade thermoplastic material, applies light, controlled pressure to the teeth. Each aligner is designed to produce small movements, in the order of fractions of a millimetre, for gradual, controlled repositioning.

Clinical and biomechanical advantages of the system

Precise tooth movement

Invisible orthodontics makes it possible to plan tooth movement in three dimensions in detail. However, the literature recognises some biomechanical limits of aligners compared with fixed braces, for example in controlling certain rotations; evidence on root resorption compared with fixed braces is also still limited.

Optimal oral hygiene

Because the aligners can be removed, you can keep to your normal home hygiene routine. In a study of about 450 patients, new white spots caused by enamel demineralisation appeared in about 1.2% of patients treated with aligners, compared with about 26% of those treated with fixed braces.

Comfort and tissue adaptation

With no brackets or metal wires, the risk of pressure sores on the inside of the mouth is reduced. Reviews of the literature generally report better periodontal health scores during aligner treatment than with fixed braces, although the evidence is of moderate quality.

Treatment times and predictive factors

The length of treatment with invisible aligners depends on the complexity of the case, and there is no standard timeframe that applies to everyone:

• Simple cases (mild crowding, gaps): usually the shortest treatment times
• Moderate cases (rotations, overbite): intermediate treatment times
• Complex cases (root movements, extractions): longer treatment times

Accelerated protocols have also been proposed, such as minimally invasive corticotomy or photobiomodulation. According to Cochrane reviews, however, the available evidence is of low or very low certainty and does not show a clinically meaningful reduction in overall treatment time. Dr Pljevljak, drawing on ten years of experience and a PhD in Oral and Dental Diseases from Sapienza University, assesses whether they may be useful on a case-by-case basis.

Expected results and long-term stability

Predictability of the result

Clinical studies show that the movements achieved do not always match those planned digitally: in a prospective study the mean accuracy was about 50%, with marked differences between types of movement. The least predictable movements included:

• Mesial rotation of the lower first molars (about 28%)
• Intrusion of the lower incisors (about 35%)
• Distal rotation of the upper canines (about 37%)

Post-treatment retention protocols

The retention phase is essential to maintain the results. The protocol, for example clear retainers worn at night, is decided case by case to help keep the bite stable over time.

Technological innovations in digital orthodontics

Bringing artificial intelligence into treatment planning now makes it possible to:

• Support the monitoring of patient compliance
• Optimise the sequence of movements to reduce the number of aligners
• Identify at-risk movements and design custom attachments
• Monitor treatment progress remotely through dedicated apps

At Nea Bios, these digital tools are combined with clinical experience to personalise every stage of the treatment.

Indications and limits of invisible treatment

Invisible orthodontics is particularly effective for:

• Mild or moderate crowding
• Gaps and spacing
• Deep bite and anterior open bite
• Dental crossbites
• Orthodontic relapse

However, some complex movements such as severe rotations of canines and premolars, extensive root movements or skeletal corrections may require additional techniques or traditional orthodontics.

For more information, see also: /en/orthodontics-clear-aligners-rome/

A personalised treatment pathway

Dr Nihad Pljevljak, registered with the Rome Order of Physicians and Dentists (Ordine dei Medici Chirurghi e Odontoiatri di Roma), takes a multidisciplinary approach that includes:

1. Complete digital diagnosis with CBCT and intraoral scanning
2. Virtual treatment planning with 3D simulation
3. Regular monitoring every 4-6 weeks
4. Adjustments along the way based on each patient's biological response
5. A personalised post-treatment maintenance protocol

The clinic's established reputation in the EUR district and the trust of many high-profile patients reflect the excellence of its clinical approach.

For a personalised assessment of your orthodontic case and to find out whether invisible orthodontics is the ideal solution for your smile, contact the Nea Bios Dental Clinic reception. The team is available Monday to Friday from 9:00 to 13:00 and 14:00 to 18:00 to arrange an appointment at Via Cesare Pavese 135, Rome EUR Laurentina.

Sources

1. Haouili N, Kravitz ND, Vaid NR, et al. Has Invisalign improved? A prospective follow-up study on the efficacy of tooth movement with Invisalign. Am J Orthod Dentofacial Orthop. 2020;158(3):420-425. PubMed
2. Rossini G, Parrini S, Castroflorio T, et al. Periodontal health during clear aligners treatment: a systematic review. Eur J Orthod. 2015;37(5):539-543. PubMed
3. Buschang PH, Chastain D, Keylor CL, et al. Incidence of white spot lesions among patients treated with clear aligners and traditional braces. Angle Orthod. 2019;89(3):359-364. PubMed
4. D'Antò V, Oliva G, Nieri M, et al. Indications and limits of clear aligner therapy: an international modified Delphi consensus study. Prog Orthod. 2025;26(1):28. PubMed
5. El-Angbawi A, McIntyre G, Fleming PS, et al. Non-surgical adjunctive interventions for accelerating tooth movement in patients undergoing orthodontic treatment. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2023;6(6):CD010887. PubMed
6. Fleming PS, Fedorowicz Z, Johal A, et al. Surgical adjunctive procedures for accelerating orthodontic treatment. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2015;(6):CD010572. PubMed