Overview: Learn the clinical steps to safely remove composite attachments and polish enamel following clear aligner treatment.
Equipment: To perform aligner attachment removal, ensure the following tools are available:
High-speed handpiece
Carbide finishing bur
One gloss point and/or cup
Fine pumice
Polishing paste
Remove Aligner Attachments
Remove the final aligner tray from the patient's teeth.
Use a high-speed handpiece equipped with a carbide finishing bur to polish the surface of the aligner attachment.
Continue polishing the attachment until the composite material is completely removed from the tooth surface.
Polish the Enamel Surface
Apply a single gloss point or cup to the enamel surface where the attachment was located.
Use fine pumice and polishing paste to smooth the enamel.
Rinse and clean the patient's teeth thoroughly to remove all residue and debris.
Confirm the results by having the patient use their tongue to verify the tooth surface feels smooth and satisfactory.