Comparison of efficacy between MBT preadjusted edgewise appliance and clear aligner therapy among class I crowding cases: A randomized controlled trial

Abstract Background To compare the efficacy of McLaughlin Bennett Trevisi (MBT) appliance and Clear Aligner Therapy (CAT) among nonextraction Class I crowding cases. Methods The study sample (60 patients) was allotted into two equal groups (30 patients each) using block randomization wherein Group 1: treated with 0.018” MBT appliance and Group 2: treated with CAT for correction of malocclusion. At the end of treatment (T1), treatment duration, chairside time, laboratory time, number, and type of appointments were noted from treatment record cards. For comparing the acceptability among patients treated with both modalities at T1, the patients were interviewed regarding the comfort and ease of using an appliance with a questionnaire-based survey. Results The median number of nonscheduled/emergency and finishing stage appointments was significantly higher in Group 1 compared to Group 2 (P-value Conclusions CAT significantly reduces treatment duration, chairside time, number of nonscheduled/emergency, and finishing stage appointments in nonextraction Class I crowding cases. Prospective studies with 3D aligner systems are recommended to add further evidence in this regard. Clinical Trials Registry-India Registration No CTRI/2018/04/013301.