Impacts of clean-up visualization techniques on excess composite of orthodontic attachments.

PURPOSE: This study compared visualization methods for removing excess composite around ellipsoid and rectangular attachments used in clear aligner therapy (CAT). METHODS: Ninety teeth were divided into three groups based on how they were assessed during cleaning: direct vision (group I), ultraviolet (UV) light (group II), and dental loupe (group III). Each group had two subgroups: rectangular (group A) and ellipsoid (group B) attachments. Excess composite was removed using tungsten carbide burs, and the clean-up duration was recorded. Surface deviations were evaluated by scan superimposition, and surface morphology was examined using scanning electron microscopy. Data were analyzed using parametric or nonparametric tests (p < 0.05). RESULTS: Group IA showed significantly longer clean-up duration than groups IIA and IIIA (p < 0.001). Group IB also differed significantly from group IIB (p = 0.012). Group IIB demonstrated significantly lower residual composite values than the other groups. CONCLUSION: Auxiliary visualization methods, particularly UV light, improved excess composite clean-up around orthodontic attachments and reduced chairside time. This may help clinicians optimize attachment bonding and enhance aligner fit.