Hybrid approach for resolution of severe crowding using a combination of aligners with modified expansion splints

The present case report demonstrates a hybrid approach using removable clear devices to gain space through transverse expansion and presents a documented case of treatment with expansion splints. Clear aligners are becoming more popular among practitioners for treatment of complicated cases. Hybrid approaches help to simplify such cases by providing anchorage or performing effective tooth movements where aligners show greater unpredictability or inefficiency. They could also be considered more environmentally friendly, since they reduce the need for a high number of aligners and multiple refinements. Dental crowding is one of the most common chief complaints in orthodontics. Gaining space through dental expansion and uprighting of the posterior teeth is an effective method of resolving crowding and can be achieved efficiently using clear removable expansion splints. The present report documents a successful case of resolution of crowding through dental expansion using modified expansion splints. Keywords: adult orthodontics, clear aligner therapy, crowding, in-house aligners, Invisalign, transverse expansion