Clinical effectiveness and patient satisfaction of clear aligner therapy in deep bite malocclusion: A randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to compare the clinical effectiveness and patient satisfaction of clear aligner therapy versus conventional fixed appliances in the treatment of deep bite malocclusion. METHODS: A prospective study was conducted at the National Hospital of Odonto-Stomatology, Hanoi, involving patients treated with either clear aligners or conventional braces. Clinical effectiveness was assessed based on treatment duration, overbite improvement, overjet reduction, and cephalometric changes. Patient satisfaction was evaluated using a structured questionnaire. RESULTS: The clear aligner group demonstrated a significantly shorter treatment duration (20.77 ± 6.43 months) compared to the braces group (27.47 ± 4.81 months, P < .001). There were no significant differences in overbite improvement (P = .461) or overjet reduction (P = .603) between the 2 groups. Cephalometric analysis showed that braces had a greater impact on vertical facial dimensions, while clear aligners were associated with increased upper incisor proclination. Patient satisfaction was significantly higher in the clear aligner group across all categories (P < .001). CONCLUSION: Both clear aligners and conventional braces can effectively treat deep bite malocclusion. Clear aligners can offer advantages in shorter treatment duration and greater patient satisfaction, whereas braces may provide better vertical control. The choice of treatment should be based on individual patient needs and clinical requirements.