Verification of predicted marginal gingival progression in virtual aligner planning compared to the final clinical situation

This study is concerned with how accurately the predicted virtual gingival progression of the SureSmile (Sirona) aligner planning software corresponds to the clinical gingival margin after completion of splint therapy. SureSmile focuses primarily on tooth movement but inevitably results in a change in the gingiva due to orthodontic movement. To evaluate the predictability of this change, the digital planning of the predicted final situation of seven patient jaws was superimposed and compared with the clinical outcome after completion of clear aligner therapy. Using the 3D software Final Surface (GFaI), the two selected STL files were referenced and subjected to a distance analysis. The matched data sets were measured and analyzed. The results showed an agreement of 76 % between the predicted and real gingival margin, with a maximum of 0.98 mm. Kruskal-Wallis analysis was performed and revealed significant differences between the groups (P = .031). As there is little scientific literature on the predictability of soft tissue in clear aligner therapy planning software, this paper aims to provide food for thought on this topic. Keywords: orthodontics, clear aligner therapy, marginal gingiva, recessions, aligner therapy