Engagers/Attachments

• A Small shape of composite material is commonly placed on the tooth to assist with certain tooth movements
• We call these shapes "Engagers", but they are also known as attachments or buttons
• Like IPR, to use, or not to use, engagers is up to the doctor

Let's look at a study done on the Retention of Thermoformed Aligners with Attachments of Various Shapes and Positions

• Study Goal: The goals of this study were to evaluate various attachment shapes and their orientation and test their ability to mechanically retain an aligner.
• Hypothesis: The study was conducted to evaluate the retention provided by attachments of various shapes and positions through measurement of the aligners' resistance to vertical dislodgement.
• Results: Overall, the vertical rectangular attachment (Group 3) showed the greatest average maximum displacement force, followed by the horizontal beveled attachment with the bevel directed occlusally (Group 1).
• Maximum Retention: