Inflammation in molars with or without attachments during clear aligner therapy
Official title: Molar-Specific Inflammatory Biomarkers in Adolescents Using Clear Aligners With and Without Attachments
Run by University of Nebraska · NCT07506993 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests whether first molars treated with clear aligners and composite attachments show higher inflammatory markers in gingival fluid than molars treated without attachments.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 14 Years to 35 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Nebraska Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Lincoln, Nebraska) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | May 1, 2026 |
| Main results expected | December 31, 2026 |
| Study ends | May 1, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | June 16, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07506993 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults undergoing clear aligner therapy at UNMC College of Dentistry, with no pregnancy, and willing to participate.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who do not form detectable differences in inflammatory biomarkers or who have contraindicated periodontal conditions may not experience a measurable benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This observational pilot compares periodontal inflammation in patients receiving clear aligner therapy with bonded molar attachments versus those without attachments. Thirty orthodontic patients (15 per group) will be recruited from the UNMC College of Dentistry and followed during routine care. At a single data collection visit, researchers will assess plaque presence at the first molars and collect gingival crevicular fluid to measure inflammatory biomarkers. The study aims to determine if attachments contribute to localized periodontal inflammation when used with clear aligners. Results may inform treatment planning and attachment use in orthodontics.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If attachments are linked to greater inflammation, clinicians might reconsider their use or implement enhanced hygiene to protect periodontal health.
How similar studies have gone: There is limited direct evidence in this exact area; prior work has explored inflammatory responses in orthodontics, but this study addresses a specific comparison (with vs without attachments) in clear aligners.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * orthodontic patient at the UNMC College of dentistry * clear aligner therapy Exclusion Criteria: * pregnancy
Where it's running
-
University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry
Lincoln, Nebraska, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Amy C Killeen, DDS, MS
- Email: akilleen@unmc.edu
- Phone: 402-472-7948
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.