Retrospective analysis of efficiency and efficacy of computer-assisted finishing technology

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficiency and efficacy of computer-assisted orthodontic treatment technology (SureSmile® or SS) compared to a comparison group (CG) of patients treated with conventional fixed appliances. Patients and methods: Records for two treatment groups (SS group = SSG and CG) of patients treated without extractions were collected from five orthodontists. Patients in the SSG were matched to patients in the CG based primarily on a modified version of the Discrepancy Index (DI) developed by the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) and secondarily on Angle classification. The final sample contained 89 patients in each group. The ABO Cast and Radiograph Evaluation (CRE) was used to assess final treatment outcome. Treatment duration and the number of adjustment appointments also were calculated. Two-sample t tests and Mann-Whitney tests were used for statistical comparisons. Results: The matched samples had no statistical differences in any of the modified DI measures or total score. Both groups showed mild malocclusions at T1. Treatment duration was significantly shorter and the number of appointments was significantly fewer (p < 0.001) in the SSG versus the CG (13.4 months and 9.2 appointments, compared to 22.4 months and 17.2 appointments, respectively). No clinically significant differences were found in the CRE scores between the two groups. Conclusions: In patients with a mild malocclusion treated without extractions, the use of the SS system results in shorter treatment durations and fewer appointments with no loss in the quality of outcome when compared to patients treated with conventional appliances.