Digital Manufacturing and Periodontal Performance of CAD/CAM-Customized Orthodontic Molar Bands Compared with Standard Stainless-Steel Bands.

Background and

Objectives

Conventional stainless-steel orthodontic molar bands may exhibit limited anatomical adaptation, favoring plaque retention and periodontal inflammation. This study aimed to compare the periodontal outcomes of standard bands and CAD/CAM-customized molar bands in adolescents. Materials and

Methods

A prospective randomized controlled clinical study was conducted in 180 adolescents (mean age: 11.9 years) undergoing fixed orthodontic therapy. Participants were allocated to CAD/CAM-customized bands (n = 90) or standard stainless-steel bands (n = 90). Periodontal parameters-Plaque Control Record (PCR), Bleeding on Probing (BOP), and Periodontal Probing Depth (PPD)-were assessed at baseline, 1, 3, and 6 months. Data were analyzed using the Mann-Whitney U test (p < 0.05).

Results

Baseline values were comparable between groups (p > 0.05). During follow-up, the CAD/CAM group showed significantly lower PCR, BOP, and PPD values. At 6 months, PCR was 21 ± 8% vs. 42 ± 12%, BOP was 17 ± 6% vs. 40 ± 10%, and PPD was 2.5 ± 0.5 mm vs. 3.1 ± 0.6 mm (all p < 0.001).

Conclusions

CAD/CAM-customized molar bands demonstrated superior periodontal performance compared with conventional bands. Improved anatomical adaptation may reduce plaque accumulation and gingival inflammation during orthodontic treatment.