#20 - CLEAR ALIGNERS: COMPUTER VS. CLINICIAN with Dr. Katie Xu (Specialist Orthodontist)

It’s been a little while but ODONTOJAM is back! For episode #19 we’re joined by Specialist Orthodontist Dr. Katie Xu to help us navigate Clear Aligner Orthodontics. 

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Clear Aligners are everywhere and we need to know what we are getting into in order to treat patients safely and predictably. 

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Dr. Katie shares a bunch of gems to hopefully help you make better decisions and consider whether or not Clear Aligner Orthodontics might be the best treatment modality for your patient. Katie reminds us that diagnosis, knowledge of biological limitations and fundamentals of orthodontics is critical to success and a stress free workflow in the aligned therapy space. 

Thank you Dr. Katie for your insights!

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In this interview we cover:

• Pitfalls with Clear Aligners
• Digital Set Ups (who are we really trusting)
• How much understanding of traditional orthodontics is required
• Differences between Fixed vs. Clear Aligners
• Situations when would we favour Clear Aligners over Fixed Appliances 
• Some Clear Aligner tips and tricks from Dr. Katie

 i. How often to see patients?

ii. Understanding the differences between aligner companies

iii. Set patients exceptions

iv. Ensure attention to detail during diagnosis, set ups and treatment plan 

• Hybrid Appliances - difficulties and complications