Mint Aligners & Hybrid Orthodontics: Maximizing Treatment Options

Introduction

Clear aligners are no longer niche—they are now a foundational treatment in many orthodontic practices. At CompleClear, our Mint Aligners system delivers discrete, comfortable, and highly controlled tooth movement. This blog will discuss the advantages of Mint Aligners, how they compare to fixed appliances, and how combining them with SAOS Braces can deliver hybrid workflows that offer the best of both worlds.

Why Mint Aligners Make Sense in Today’s Market

1. Discreet & Patient-Friendly

Mint Aligners are virtually invisible, making them especially appealing to adult patients, professionals, and image-conscious individuals. Compared to metallic hardware, they give patients confidence during the treatment journey.

2. Improved Oral Hygiene

Because aligners are removable, patients can maintain their regular brushing and flossing routines without navigating brackets and wires. This reduces plaque accumulation and lowers the risk of decay and gingivitis.

3. Comfort & Flexibility

Aligners avoid the friction, soft tissue irritation, and soreness common in bracket systems. Patients can remove them for meals and special occasions.

4. Digital Treatment Planning & Predictability

Mint Aligners are driven by digital setups, allowing orthodontists to forecast and simulate the entire tooth movement sequence before treatment begins. This enhances predictability and helps identify potential refinements early.

5. Reduced Appointment Load

Many aligner systems require fewer in-person visits, as adjustments are pre-built into each stage of the aligner sequence.

Mint Aligners in Practice

• Consultation & Scanning: Intraoral scanning captures the patient’s dental structure in 3D.
• Treatment Design & Review: Orthodontists review the digital plan and ensure movement trajectories are optimal.
• Delivery & Usage: Patients wear aligners for approximately 20–22 hours per day, progressing through staged sets.
• Monitoring: Periodic check-ins validate progress and handle refinements if needed.

Hybrid: Combining Mint Aligners with SAOS Braces

Many practitioners now adopt a hybrid or combination approach, using both aligners and fixed systems (like SAOS Braces) in a sequence or dual-phase plan. This method allows you to:

• Address Complex Movements: Use SAOS Braces for challenging tooth movements (rotations, extrusions) and aligners for general alignment.
• Offer Discretion When Desired: Start with aligners for aesthetics, then switch to Snap-On SAOS Braces for finishing.
• Optimize Treatment Efficiency: Each system’s strengths can be utilized in phase-based protocols.
• Increase Case Acceptance: Patients may feel more comfortable knowing you offer both options, customized to their needs.

Addressing Limitations & Setting Expectations

While aligners are strong tools, they may have limitations with severe malocclusions or high torque demands. In those cases, combining with fixed appliances or planning for a limited bracket phase can yield better results.

Additionally, patient compliance is critical: aligners must be worn per schedule, or progress may stall.

Final Thoughts

Thinking about integrating Mint Aligners into your practice—or exploring hybrid treatment workflows combining aligners and SAOS Braces? Reach out to us for a technical deep dive, clinical cases, and training resources. We’re here to support your transition to advanced orthodontic care.

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