Attachment
Tips & Tricks

INSTRUMENTS AND MATERIALS NEEDED

Template tray(s), Petroleum jelly, mineral oil or non-stick cooking spray, Acid etch, Scaler, Paste type composite, Flowable composite, Light curing gun

HOW TO PLACE ATTACHMENTS

  1. Prepare the teeth
    1. Use lip retractors
    2. Consider using air abrasion with 50 micron aluminum dioxide
    3. Acid etch only the area beneath the attachment(s)
    4. Thoroughly rinse off the acid etch
    5. Use warm air to dry the teeth
  2. Prepare the template tray(s) and attachment(s)
    1. Trim the template tray(s) if desired
    2. Put a light, thin coat of petroleum jelly, mineral oil, or Pam inside the attachment void(s) on the template tray(s)
    3. Use an explorer to place a hole in the attachment void(s) for composite extrusion
    4. Fill the attachment void(s) about 2/3 of the way full with paste composite
    5. Fill the last 1/3 of the attachment void(s) with flowable composite
  3. Finish attachments
    1. Apply the bonding agent to the etched and dry tooth
    2. Place the template tray on the teeth and light cure
    3. Remove the template tray and any composite flash
    4. Check the fit of the new aligner after attachments are placed

REMOVING ATTACHMENTS

  • Attachments can be removed at the patient’s demand, however, be sure to inform the patient that the aligners may not move the teeth as well as expected without the use of the attachments.
  • Use the same method as you would for removing composite restorations or orthodontic bracket adhesive:
    • White stone finishing burs (will not cut enamel)
    • Multi-fluted composite finishing burs (will cut enamel)